President William Ruto has urged political leaders to observe good manners and respect each other. He also came strongly to the defense of his Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki, who has been the target of criticism by DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua.
President Ruto was speaking at Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, Deputy President Kindiki’s political backyard on the third day of his development tour of the Mt. Kenya region. He referred to the attacks on his deputy as unjustified and characterize Kindiki as an unassuming, hardworking and dedicated public servant who is worthy of respect rather than being made a laughingstock.
The President explained that Kindiki has been supporting the government’s agenda and the administration’s efforts to deliver their promises to the people of Kenya.
Ruto faulted Gachagua for continuing to lash out at him personally and launching a divisive form of politics. He asked him to stop undermining other leaders and instead call for unity and constructive political engagement.
The President highlighted that respect and service to the people should be the basis of leadership and not personal grudges and public insults. Ruto also indicated that the DCP leader was exhibiting dictatorial political tendencies and cautioned against moves to intimidate or control political discourse in the Mt. Kenya region.
Ruto reiterated government’s commitment in developments and bettering the lives of the Kenyans.
He clarified that the administration will keep on making tough but right decisions which are geared towards achieving the long-term economic stability and prosperity of the nation.
The President was of the view that although some policy choices may not be liked very much in the short term, they are the ones that will secure the future of the country and the well-being of generations yet to come.
His words were an indication of political tensions having risen as well as the beef-up between allies and ex-allies of Kenya Kwanza coalition leaders as they set themselves up for thw nexr elections.