The National Assembly's Public Petitions Committee on Tuesday, 29 April, received a petition seeking the official recognition of the Chuka community as a distinct tribe in Kenya.
The petition was presented by the Chuka MP, Patrick Ntwiga, on behalf of the Chuka community, which resides in Tharaka Nithi County. During the committee meeting, the legislator highlighted the community's unique historical, cultural, social, and economic characteristics.
In his petition, Ntwiga asserted that the Constitution recognised the importance of culture, and he reiterated that cultural and linguistic diversity was a source of national pride and unity.
“The Constitution recognises that every person has the right to choose their language and to participate in cultural life. A person belonging to a cultural or linguistic community also has the right to enjoy their culture and use their language,” Ntwiga argued.
The legislator informed the Committee that the Chuka community numbers over 117,000 individuals, primarily located in Tharaka Nithi County.
He argued that despite maintaining distinct governance structures, economic activities, and cultural practices, the Chuka people were compelled to identify as Meru to access essential services.
A Chuka elder who accompanied the petitioner highlighted the challenges faced by the community, stating, "The Chuka people are forced to learn other languages such as Kikuyu and Meru to access education, practise religion and participate fully in society."
The petition further detailed the historical governance and leadership systems within the Chuka community, including the Kiama gia Nkome and Kiama kia Mugongo councils of elders, which have historically played a significant role in community leadership and conflict resolution.
Drawing a comparison with neighbouring Tanzania, which recognises approximately 180 distinct tribes, the petitioners urged the Committee to investigate the matter to secure the urgent recognition of the Chuka community as a distinct tribe.
Members of the Committee welcomed the petition, describing it as “timely and of great importance.” However, they also encouraged the petitioners to focus their arguments on potential socio-economic gains alongside tribal recognition.
Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi remarked, “This petition is commendable as it highlights the challenges faced by many other small communities. It could pave the way for marginalised communities to also receive their deserved recognition.”
Following the deliberations, the Committee is scheduled to proceed with its consideration of the petition by inviting relevant stakeholders to provide submissions. Thereafter, the Committee will prepare a report to be debated on the floor of the House.
