President William Ruto has explained the reasons behind his unexpected visit to former President Uhuru Kenyatta at his Gatundu home on Monday. The visit, which surprised many given the strained relationship between the two leaders, was focused on promoting national unity and addressing tribal divisions in Kenya.
In an official statement from State House, it was revealed that Ruto and Kenyatta discussed critical national and regional issues during their meeting. However, speaking in Wajir Town on Tuesday, Ruto provided a more personal explanation for his visit, emphasizing the need for unity in the country.
Ruto highlighted that his primary goal was to bridge Kenya’s ethnic divides and foster a sense of national togetherness. “Hakuna haja ya kuendesha mambo ya ubaguzi katika Kenya, hatutaki ukabila, hatutaki migawanyiko, chuki….tunataka tuungane tukuwe Kenya moja,” Ruto stated in Swahili, which translates to, “There is no need to perpetuate discrimination in Kenya. We do not want tribalism, divisions, or hatred. We want to unite and be one Kenya.”
Ruto also pointed out his recent engagements with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, stressing that the government is supporting Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship. He emphasized that these efforts were part of a broader strategy to unite the country and overcome the challenges posed by ethnic politics.
In a further call for unity, Ruto stated, “Na ndio kwa sababu nimeongea na former Prime Minister Raila Odinga na nimeongea jana na mheshimiwa Uhuru Kenyatta…tufunge ranks zetu zote…tuwe nchi moja, tutembee pamoja, tujenge nchi yetu pamoja,” which loosely translates to, “That’s why I have spoken with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and, yesterday, with Honorable Uhuru Kenyatta. Let’s close ranks, unite as one nation, and walk together to build our country.”
The President also issued a strong warning to politicians fueling tribalism. “Mnataka tuendelee na ubaguzi ama tuungane? Mnataka tuendelee na hii ukabila inatusumbua? Ndio nimesema hawa watu wote wa ukabila watatembea miguu, ama mnasemaje?” Ruto said, cautioning that those promoting divisive politics would face consequences, including removal from power.
