The National Liberal Party (NLP) has accused a section of leaders from the Ukambani region of deliberately sidelining others during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held on Monday in Kitui County.
NLP chairperson Augustus Muli during the press conference, said that it was a plan to exclude leaders from the main event of the mashujaa day based on their different political views.
Muli said that some less-known but influential leaders at the grassroots level were turned down to get an opportunity to meet President William Ruto, who was the chief guest.
He noted that the act of excluding the people was not only contrary to the spirit of unity and national cohesion, which is the core of the Mashujaa Day celebrations but also a breach of the law.
He urged a call to be made for the inclusion of all leaders in national events stating that no leader, regardless of their political affiliation, should be denied a chance to attend activities of national importance.
NLP leader said that local and national government officials should open up for dialogue and cooperation with all the leaders in the region so that political discrimination does not destroy social harmony and development.
Despite his criticism, Dr. Muli extended gratitude to President William Ruto for selecting Kitui as the host county for this year’s Mashujaa Day celebrations. He described the event as a great honor for Kitui and the entire Eastern region, highlighting the opportunity it presented for showcasing the county’s potential.
“We sincerely thank the President for gracing Kitui. It was an opportunity for the world to see our beautiful county and its potential. However, such moments should not be misused for narrow political gains,” Dr. Muli added.
President Ruto is scheduled to officially pay a return visit to the Ukambani region in the next few days.
