President William Ruto has told off critics of his broad-based government.
Speaking in Keumbu, Kisii county on Tuesday, Ruto insisted that there comes a time when the interests of the country supersede any other interests.
“Naona viongozi wengine wako na shida na muungano wa wakenya, wako na shida na serikali nimeunda kuleta wakenya pamoja, nataka niwaambie hawa viongozi mjue kwamba inafika wakati umoja wa taifa, progress ya Kenya, transformation ya nchi yetu ni ya muhimu kuliko vyama, mirengo na makabila,” he said.
This translates to, “I see other leaders have a problem with the unity of Kenyans, they have a problem with the government I have created to bring Kenyans together, I want to tell these leaders that a time comes when the unity of the nation, the progress of Kenya, the transformation of our country is more important than parties, sects and tribes.”
The President emphasized that prioritizing the common good of the country is a higher patriotic duty than pursuing personal interests. He stated that this is not a time for division among Kenyans, nor is it a moment to focus on individual gains. Ruto asserted that Kenya can only become a great nation if its people unite and work collaboratively.
“I am asking those leaders who are yet to turn around and believe there is value in unity, working together and closing ranks. We the people of Kenya working for the progress of the nation, working for the unity of the nation and for the transformation of Kenya.
“That represents a greater patriotic calling than individualism and interests that benefit individuals, parties, or specific tribes. We aim to collaborate as a nation. This is not the time for disunity. It is not a moment to prioritize the selfish interests of leaders or to focus on our political affiliations,” he added.
Ruto is currently on a three-day development tour of the larger Gusii region, which began on Monday. Following the dismissal of his entire Cabinet on July 11, 2024, Ruto announced plans to establish a broad-based government.
Staying true to his commitment, he included at least five members from the Opposition party, ODM, in his new Cabinet. Four of these individuals have been appointed as Cabinet Secretaries, while one is awaiting confirmation by the National Assembly.
