EMBU, Kenya—Former President Uhuru Kenyatta called for political tolerance on a day when he shared a podium with his successor, President William Ruto, and his Deputy, Kithure Kindiki.
The leaders met at the University of Embu grounds during the Episcopal Consecration and Installation of Bishop-Elect Monsignor Peter Kimani Ndung’u as the new Catholic Bishop of Embu Diocese in an event attended by former deputy governor Rigathi Gachagua.
“I want to echo the remarks made here by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki: let us pray for our country, peace, peace, and unity and harmony between our leaders and our citizens,” said Uhuru.
Why Uhuru Kenyatta wants to see a united Kenya
The former head of state sat next to DP Kindiki and was accorded a warm reception after arriving at the event.
“Let us stop engaging in tribalism, but instead, let us love each other. We all are Kenyans, and Kenya can’t progress if there is disunity when people are lashing at each other if they are no respect. As we have said, respect is a two-way traffic, so our leaders respect citizens, and they will return the favour,” explained Uhuru amid cheers from the crowd.
Uhuru cheekily joked that he had lost a great friend at Bishop Kimani’s elevation.
“To my good Lord Bishop, even if they have warmly welcomed you here, I have personally lost a great friend; I will not have someone with whom I will joke. I fear and respect you even more because you have attained a new rank in the Church; you can block prayers from above,” Uhuru cracked the crowd.
He further assured the new bishop-elect, who, until his appointment, served in the Nairobi Catholic Diocese, of his unwavering support.
“I want to assure you you can invite us back here anytime once you settle down in the office. We come and join you alongside our other people from here in Embu so that we can build the Church of God and continue working together,” said Uhuru.
Why Uhuru Kenyatta wants to work with the Church
Uhuru further assured the new bishop that he would not engage in politics if invited back to the Church.
“Most importantly, I want to assure you that I won’t bring politics to the Church; I will only come for a fundraiser or any other issue you would have invited me for,” said the retired head of state.
Meanwhile, Uhuru, who left office during the hotly contested 2022 General Election, cracked up the crowd further when he disclosed that he no longer has much to say after retiring.
“I don’t have much to say. You know, these days, I don’t have many stories. I watch TV and listen to the radio,” said Uhuru before the excited crowd laughed.
