Listen to This Article Enhance your reading experience by listening to this article.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has lauded President William Ruto’s efforts to foster unity and inclusivity in the country through the broad-based government.

Speaking yesterday during the commemoration of the 61st Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, Kindiki emphasised that Kenya’s progress hinges on collective efforts as he praised recent initiatives aimed at bringing various stakeholders together for the country’s advancement.

In his first address to the nation as DP, Kindiki expressed gratitude for Ruto’s outreach to key stakeholders, including former President Uhuru Kenyatta, opposition leader Raila Odinga, and for the formation of a broad-based government.

“Thank you for reaching out to as many stakeholders as possible to bring everyone to the table so that we can all pull in one direction to ensure that our country moves to the next level,” Kindiki said.

Reflecting on the significance of Jamhuri Day, Kindiki paid tribute to Kenya’s independence heroes, acknowledging their sacrifices for the country’s freedom, unity, and dignity.

“We are here today because, years ago, gallant sons and daughters of our country united, resisted oppression, division, and segregation, and fought for our liberty and the pride of the black person,” said Kindiki.

Kindiki urged Kenyans to honour the values upheld by the nation’s forefathers by maintaining unity, preserving the country’s heritage, and building a prosperous and inclusive future.

He reminded Kenyans of their responsibility to ensure that future generations inherit a united and thriving nation.

“We owe our forefathers a debt of gratitude for their sacrifices, and we also owe our children and the generations to come the responsibility of passing on a united, prosperous, and inclusive country,” he concluded.

On December 9, President Ruto visited his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, at his family home in Gatundu, marking their first direct engagement since the bitter fallout between them.

State House said in a statement that the duo engaged in discussions centred on matters of national and regional importance.

During the visit, President Ruto took the opportunity to commend President Kenyatta for his remarkable statesmanship in overseeing the peaceful transfer of power after the 2022 general elections, and continued goodwill.

Both leaders also stressed the importance of fostering a nationalistic and harmonious working relationship among all sectors of Kenyan society.

In terms of governance, the two leaders agreed on the need to address political and governance challenges through collaboration and unity.

Meanwhile leaders in Kajiado have called on President William Ruto to constitute the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) saying lack of the crucial commission has left the country in limbo.

Speaking during the Jamhuri Day celebrations marked at Oloitiptip Stadium, governor Joseph Lenku said the lack of an electoral commission is creating tension among Kenyans besides disadvantaging regions that do not have substantive elected leaders. He warned that Kenyans are running out of patience over the fate of the 2027 general election.

Disenfranchised Kenyans

Lenku, who doubles up as the Maa spokesperson, said the Ilchamus section of the Maa Community living in Baringo are among those disadvantaged by lack of the commission.

“Kenyans are at cross roads on the state of the country without an electoral body. Some Kenyans have continued to remain unrepresented due to prevailing circumstances. While voters have the power and the will to elect them, their democratic rights have been limited due to the absence of IEBC,” Lenku said.

The county boss also underscored the need for national dialogue among political leaders and key stakeholders to address critical issues affecting Kenyans as well as the growing political tensions in the country.

“National unity and cohesion can only be attained if leaders humble themselves and listen to Kenyans and other leaders. It is high time that Kenyans’ priorities are addressed urgently,” said Lenku

Lenku’s sentiments were echoed by other leaders present including Senator Samuel Kanar, Kajiado South MP Samuel Parashina and MCAs present.