DP Ruto calls for unity ahead of August polls

Deputy President William Ruto has called on all Kenyans to continue praying for the country as it prepares to go to the ballot on August 8th.

Speaking at Deliverance Church Umoja in Nairobi, DP Ruto urged religious leaders to also pray for aspirants seeking various political seats to ensure Kenyans also get right leaders during the August polls.

The DP further stressed on the importance of all leaders and other Kenyans promoting national unity to ensure peace prevails in the coming general election.

“We must continue as Kenyans to build the bridge of unity, brotherhood, and friendship to unite all Kenyans so that as Kenyans we can work together from all communities, all faiths and all regions because indeed that is the will of God,” he said.

Meanwhile, speaking at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA), Umoja in Nairobi on Sunday, the Deputy President said religious leaders could play a central role in the agenda to ensure stability and unity of Kenya.

“The church can play a greater role in preaching peace and unity among Kenyans. We can only prosper as a nation if we forget our different ethnic backgrounds and work together,” said Mr Ruto.

Mr Ruto who was accompanied by MPs George Theuri (Embakasi West) and Yusuf Hassan (Kamukunji) said Jubilee was committed to building bridges of friendship and brotherhood as the only way to attain a united country free from tribalism and negative ethnicity.

“Tribalism has been the major stumbling block to the unity of Kenyans. This is why as Jubilee we have committed ourselves in building bridges of friendship and brotherhood among all Kenyans of all faiths, regions so that we have a country that all of us can be proud of,” said Mr Ruto.

He asked Christians to continue praying for the country especially now that it is preparing for August elections.

“We must say no to hate and refuse ethnicity as a standard for our engagement if we are to move forward as a united nation,” said Mr Ruto.

The Deputy President, at the same time, assured Kenyans that the Government was committed to a peaceful election in August.

He said those agencies responsible for the management of polls were working round the clock to ensuring free, fair and peaceful elections.

“Issues pertaining to confusion and violence should never be our option. We should elect leaders who understand the importance of peace and a united nation,” said Mr Ruto.

He said Jubilee has implemented most of its development agenda for the country including construction of the railway line, improvement of infrastructure, health facilities, education and provision of water among other projects because of goodwill of Kenyans.

Mr Theuri urged Kenyans to support Jubilee come the August elections because it has focus and agenda for the country.

“Jubilee has done a lot in terms of development and within a short period to transform the lives of Kenyans. This is why I ask Kenyans to give it another chance to continue serving us,” said Mr Theuri.