President William Ruto’s recent call for political unity deserves more attention than it is receiving. At a time when political temperatures are already rising ahead of the 2027 General Election, Kenya cannot afford to allow political differences to become a source of permanent division.
Ruto has urged leaders from different political formations to learn to work together, accommodate one another and put the country’s interests first. This should not automatically be dismissed simply because it comes from a sitting president or from someone whose politics one may disagree with.
Supporting the presidency does not mean surrendering one’s political beliefs. It means recognising that the office of the President belongs to the Republic of Kenya and that the country needs stability for government institutions, businesses and ordinary citizens to function.
Kenyans can disagree with Ruto’s policies, challenge his decisions and support different political parties. That is the essence of democracy. But political competition should never become personal hatred, tribal hostility or a reason to destroy relationships and communities.
The warning from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is equally important: political competition should be based on the record and performance of leaders, rather than insults, violence and division.
We should therefore embrace unity without abandoning democratic choice. Kenya does not need everyone to belong to the same party. We need citizens who can disagree politically while remaining united as Kenyans.
Elections come and go. Politicians rise and fall. But Kenya remains our shared home.
The 2027 contest will eventually be decided by voters. Until then, there is no reason to turn political differences into permanent enemies. We can support the presidency, hold leaders accountable and still protect the peace and unity of the country.
Kenya should come first. Political parties should come second.