•Leaders Warn Against Divisive Politics, Urge Cooperation for National Progress
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula have called for greater unity among Kenyan parliamentarians, warning that heightened political tensions could destabilize the country.
The two leaders made their appeal during the funeral service of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo at Arap Moi Secondary School in Bartabwa.
Amid rising political temperatures, the speakers cautioned against divisive rhetoric, which they noted could threaten national peace and stability.
They emphasized the need for leaders to embrace dialogue and work together to address the country’s pressing challenges instead of engaging in confrontational politics.
Kingi: Reject Tribalism, Foster National Unity
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi expressed concern over the increasing polarization in the country, lamenting that some leaders were exploiting tribal divisions for political gain.
He urged politicians to abandon divisive politics and instead become ambassadors of peace and cohesion.
“If we want to stand as one country, we need to unite. Let’s refrain from dividing our people along tribal lines because we are one people,” Kingi stated.
He further cautioned that political competition should not be treated as a life-or-death battle that creates lasting enmity among leaders.
Instead, he encouraged a culture of tolerance and mutual respect in Kenya’s political landscape.
Wetangula: Leaders Must Speak the Language of Unity
Echoing Kingi’s sentiments, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula urged leaders to be mindful of their public statements, warning that reckless political rhetoric could rekindle past tensions, including memories of the 2007/2008 post-election violence.
“We must be careful with our words. We do not want to return to the dark days of 2007/2008. Leaders must speak in a language that unites, not one that divides,” Wetangula warned.
Acknowledging that the current administration faces economic and governance challenges, Wetangula encouraged leaders to focus on solutions rather than blame games.
“It seems we have forgotten the spirit of leadership. When there is a problem, the answer is to look for a solution instead of laying blame on others,” he said.
He urged politicians from both sides of the political divide to put their differences aside and collectively work towards addressing the needs of the Kenyan people.
Wetangula also called on religious leaders to continue praying for national unity and stability, emphasizing that disunity among politicians ultimately hurts ordinary citizens.
President Ruto, Other Leaders Support Call for Unity
President William Ruto, who attended the funeral, echoed the speakers’ calls for national cohesion. He urged leaders to put patriotism above personal interests and work together to shape Kenya’s future.
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina also pleaded with parliamentarians to unite for the good of the country, warning that failure to do so could lead to dire consequences.
“It is now upon us to reflect on our role as leaders and realize that our actions will determine the future of this nation,” Olekina cautioned.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi urged leaders to emulate the late Senator Cheptumo, describing him as a humble and peace-loving politician who never engaged in divisive politics.
“You can win an election without hurling abusive words at others or accusing your competitors. Let’s abandon politics that tear people down,” Cheboi said.
A Tribute to Senator Cheptumo
The late Senator William Cheptumo was widely eulogized as a dedicated public servant and a unifying figure in Kenyan politics.
Many speakers praised his commitment to peace, humility, and mentorship of young leaders.
Among the high-profile dignitaries who attended the burial were Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot.
As Kenya navigates a politically charged environment, the message from its top leadership was clear: unity, dialogue, and responsible leadership are crucial for the nation’s stability and progress.
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