People’s Liberation Party [PLP] leader Martha Karua delivered a hopeful message as she officially opened the first edition of the Ngemi Cia Ruraya cultural event in the United States on July 12, 2025, rallying Kenyans in the diaspora to embrace unity and demand transformative leadership back home.
Clad in a striking purple outfit, Karua began her remarks by drawing attention to her colour choice, describing it as a symbol of hope and resilience.
She emphasised her commitment to unity and called for Kenyan leaders who possess firm conviction and the wisdom to guide the country steadily towards a prosperous future.
“First of all, looking at me, you can see what colour I am wearing—purple. It is the colour of hope. We need unity, and we need to correct the direction we are heading in. Kenya cannot stay the way it is—it needs better managers.”
Real change
The former presidential running mate also underscored that real change does not start at the top, but from within citizens themselves.
She said that Kenyans must aspire to transformation and persistently strive towards it, as that is the only way they will ultimately build a country that is prosperous and just.
“Change begins with you. If we desire a better Kenya, we have to seek transformation,” she said, adding that the spirit of the Ngemi Cia Ruraya event itself reflected the unity of purpose that Kenyans must embrace.
In a hard-hitting political moment that drew cheers from the crowd, Karua challenged President William Ruto’s administration, questioning how many more lives must be lost for him to complete his first term.
She received a warm response as the crowd erupted in chants of ‘Ruto must go,’ leaving her visibly elated.
“How many more must die so that Ruto can finish his one term? No more must die. Ruto must go,” she declared, prompting the audience to break into chants of “Ruto must go.”
In a lighter tone to conclude her remarks, Karua teased her participation in the cultural celebration and dance competitions that would follow.
She said that if challenged to a dance competition against others her age, she would emerge victorious, cautioning people not to underestimate her dancing abilities.
“Do not underestimate me when it comes to dancing,” she said. “I will emerge the winner if we compete—just ensure the DJ plays the right music.”
Karua was the first speaker to address the gathering before ushering in former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was also in attendance.
The event, hosted at Saghalie Middle School in Seattle, drew hundreds of Kenyans from the diaspora, particularly members of the Kikuyu community living in various parts of the United States.
The event’s main host was popular Kameme FM presenter Muthoni wa Kirumba, who kept the crowd engaged throughout the programme.
Attendees were also treated to performances from celebrated artistes, including mugithi star Samidoh, who had already arrived in Seattle ahead of the event and met both Karua and Gachagua during their second day in the country.
Ngemi Cia Ruraya
Ngemi Cia Ruraya is a cultural and political gathering that brings together members of the Kikuyu diaspora community, particularly those living in the United States, to celebrate their heritage, foster unity, and discuss matters affecting their homeland.
The event features traditional music, dance, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, serving as both a cultural showcase and a forum for civic engagement among Kenyans abroad.
Held in vibrant cities such as Seattle, Ngemi Cia Ruraya also provides a platform for political leaders, artistes, and community influencers to connect with the diaspora and rally support for various national causes.
