SIAYA, Kenya – President William Ruto has urged Kenyan leaders to abandon divisive and tribal politics in favor of national unity, emphasizing that such politics have been a major obstacle to the country’s development.
Speaking during the funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s aide, George Oduor, in Siaya County, the President called on all Kenyans to set aside ethnic divisions and focus on building a united and prosperous nation.
Addressing the congregation, President Ruto lamented that divisive politics have hindered Kenya’s progress, particularly in some regions of the country.
He pointed out that these political dynamics have undermined efforts at fostering unity and development, and that it is now time for change.
“Divisive politics have held our nation back. We must move beyond ethnic divides and focus on the common good,” said President Ruto.
He praised Raila Odinga for his bold decision to work with him in the spirit of national unity, describing the move as a commitment to the country’s greater good.
“In the same way I stood with you when you needed a man, you have equally stood with me when I needed a man to stand with me,” the President remarked, acknowledging Raila’s personal sacrifice in setting aside his interests for the welfare of the nation.
Ruto called on leaders to emulate Raila’s example, prioritizing the needs of Kenyans over personal ambitions and fostering a political culture that encourages inclusivity rather than division.
“We must get rid of politics of division and negative ethnicity. It’s possible for us to have a nation that can benefit all of us,” he added.
The President also highlighted the achievements of his government in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and agriculture, which he said have contributed to the overall improvement of Kenya’s economy.
He noted that the stabilization of the Kenya shilling and a reduction in inflation were clear indicators of the country’s economic recovery.
“For the first time in Kenya’s history, we are connecting electricity to every part of the country. Before, it was the preserve of the rich, at the expense of vulnerable Kenyans,” President Ruto explained.
He also mentioned that Siaya County had been allocated Sh1.2 billion to connect 15,000 new households to the electricity grid and that Sh60 billion would be invested in improving roads across the country.
Ruto described the late George Oduor as a loyal confidant and a patriot who demonstrated great integrity throughout his life.
In his remarks, Raila Odinga also called for an end to tribal politics and emphasized the importance of unity.
“There is no need for us to promote tribal politics that can undermine the unity of our country,” Raila said, adding that MPs must not undermine devolution, which has significantly improved lives in rural areas.
National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohammed praised the recent agreement between Ruto and Raila, noting that it would accelerate development efforts across the country.
“The recent agreement between UDA and ODM was for the unity and development of this country,” Junet pointed out.
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga both urged leaders to keep politics out of schools, a sentiment echoed by other speakers who lauded the late George Oduor’s loyalty and intelligence.
