Ruto Warns Leaders to Desist From Divisive Ethnic Politics

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• President William Ruto urged Kenyan leaders to avoid divisive tribal politics, emphasizing that it undermines national development and hinders his government’s promises.
• During a church service in Bungoma County, Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to equitable development across all regions and warned elected officials against neglecting their constitutional duties.

President William Ruto on Sunday reiterated his call for Kenyan leaders to avoid using divisive politics to garner support. 

Ruto, clearly frustrated, emphasized that encouraging tribal divisions would undermine the nation’s development and hinder the realization of his government’s ambitious promises.

Speaking at a church service in Amutala Stadium, Bungoma County, Ruto asserted that his administration is committed to ensuring that every region in Kenya receives an equal share of development resources to foster national unity.

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“I have been in politics for a long time and understand the dangers of divisive politics based on ethnicity. I urge you not to walk on the slippery road of dividing Kenyans based on tribal affiliations,” Ruto stated. 

“Let us focus our attention on the transformation of Kenya and not the division of Kenya. I urge all leaders to go in that direction.”

He further warned elected leaders against neglecting their constitutional duties, noting that failing to fulfill their roles could stagnate national progress. 

“Your job in parliament is representation, which is about your constituency. The other two jobs of legislation and oversight concern the nation of Kenya and are conducted in the National Assembly. It is not a village assembly,” Ruto noted. 

“I encourage you to represent your constituencies effectively but also to move around Kenya to understand your responsibilities better and perform them equally. That way, we will build a strong and prosperous nation.”

Ruto’s plea echoed his Madaraka Day speech on Saturday, where he reaffirmed his commitment to fostering development and eliminating tribal politics from his government. 

“I assure Kenyans that we will never go back to the politics of ethnicity and personalities,” he said. 

“The 2022 election was defining. It helped clear tribal politics and showed that Kenyan voters make decisions based on issue-based manifestos.”

This call for unity comes amid moves by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to rally support from Mt. Kenya region leaders, claiming that some individuals are attempting to persuade President Ruto to abandon him politically.