President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga shared a platform in Kilifi County, where they called for national unity.

The two spoke during the funeral of Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s father, Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, in Kilifi.

In a message urging Kenyans to shun tribalism and political hostility, President Ruto pointed out the importance of peace as a cornerstone for development.

“It is the responsibility of all of us to safeguard peace by engaging in activities that do not jeopardise our stability,” Ruto said.

“Leaders must take the lead in uniting the country, not dividing it.”

The president told those organising demonstrations to operate within the confines of the law and the Constitution.

“Those engaging in demonstrations must do so peacefully and without destroying life or property,” he said, urging leaders to put aside political differences and work together on the country’s development agenda.

“We may have different opinions, but as leaders, we must unite for the prosperity of the nation,” he added.

Ruto announced that the government will erect an electric fence around Tsavo East National Park to curb elephant invasions in Kilifi.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to resolving the Coast region’s land problems, revealing that 40,000 title deeds are ready for issuance in Kilifi County.

“We are making progress in sorting out historical land injustices and eradicating the squatter problem,” said the Head of State.

Raila called for the enactment of laws to address Kenya’s history of violent protests, saying it is only in Kenya where demonstrations are often marred by police brutality and bloodshed.

“We have seen protests in the UK, France, the US, and even Japan. Demonstrators in those countries notify police, march peacefully, and disperse. Here, protests often end in tragedy,” he said.

He urged the government to prioritise legal reforms that would allow peaceful demonstrations without the recurring cycle of violence.

Raila also criticised what he termed as divisive and tribal politics, warning against leaders who frame politics as a matter of “shares.”

“It is Kenyans who vote out leaders, not a few individuals. We must move away from politics of exclusion and threats,” he said.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi encouraged Ruto to remain focused despite criticism. “You are being fought because you are strong. Eventually, even your critics will praise what you’re doing.”