President William Ruto has defended his push for a broad-based government with opposition emphasising its importance for national unity and development.
The head of state urged leaders from various political backgrounds to embrace his newfound unity with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and prioritise the collective good of Kenyans over personal or political interests.
“Mheshimiwa Raila Odinga alikubaliana na mimi tuungane na tuunganishe taifa letu la Kenya na kuakikisha tunapeleka taifa letu mbele bila ya kujali wewe ni wa mrengo gani wa siasa,” he said.
While attending a church service in Nairobi on Sunday, the President noted that both his political party and Raila’s shared significant similarities in their agendas for the nation, making it essential to act on their common goals for the benefit of the country.
“Katika Manifesto ya Azimio kulikuwa na maneno ya Housing. Manifesto ya Kenya Kwanza pia ilikuwa na mambo ya Housing. Manifesto ya Azimio ilikuwa na mambo ya Afya, vile vile Manifesto ya Kenya Kwanza likuwa na mambo ya afya. Sasa mbona tusiungane tutekeleze yale yaliyokuwa kwenye manifesto zetu ili Kenya isonge mbele?” he posed.
Ruto argued that the time has come for all Kenyans to unite and work towards common goals, particularly in addressing challenges such as poverty and infrastructure development.
“Sasa maneno ya siasa tuweke kando. Hiyo maneno ingine yote tumemalizana nayo. Sasa tuungane,” he stated.
He expressed confidence that with a singular focus, his administration will concentrate on fulfilling the promises made to Kenyans.
“Our nation is going to achieve transformation, and I am confident that we will take this nation to the next level,” he declared.
He highlighted housing projects in informal settlements as key initiatives of his administration aimed at improving the lives of Kenyans residing there.
“Leo tunajenga nyumba Kibera and Mukuru ambazo mwananchi mdogo anapata kwa shilingi 3000 ambayo analipia sasa kwa nyumba zenye umeme, maji na choo. Disemba, wanapata nyumba nzuri. Tunaanza na nyumba elfu moja hapa Nairobi,” he said.
“Mwananchi ambaye leo anaishi nyumba ya mabati na matope ataingia kwa orofa kumi na moja aishi pale na hiyo elfu tatu yake, kwa sababu we want to make a difference in the Republic of Kenya,” he added.
By Eric Biegon