Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on Kenyans to reject divisive political rhetoric aimed at stirring ethnic animosity, urging citizens to prioritize peace and unity as the foundation for national development.
Speaking in Buuri Constituency, Meru County, Kindiki emphasized that the government will not tolerate attempts to incite communities against one another. He noted that Kenya’s strength lies in its diversity, and peaceful coexistence among communities is essential for sustainable growth.
“There’s only one Kenya,” he affirmed. “The country will develop if all communities co-exist. We will not lend space to those trying to divide and incite Kenyans along tribal lines.”
Kindiki highlighted the government’s commitment to equitable development, particularly through empowerment programs targeting youths, women, and small-scale traders. He defended these initiatives against critics, asserting that financial support of as little as Ksh.10,000 can transform small businesses and livelihoods at the grassroots level.
“Our mama mboga, boda boda riders, salon and barbershop owners, carpenters, and electricians play a vital role in local economies. They don’t need handouts during elections — they need empowerment now,” he said.
The empowerment initiative, he explained, is part of broader efforts to uplift vulnerable groups and is complemented by national programs such as the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) and the Kenya Jobs Economic Transformation initiative. These programs aim to create sustainable economic opportunities, particularly for young people and women.
Kindiki also enumerated several development projects underway in Meru County. These include the construction of 17 new markets, with six more planned, and an allocation of Ksh.1.9 billion for expanding last-mile electricity connections targeting 20,000 households.
“We are also reviving stalled roads and creating jobs in various sectors. These projects are about improving the lives of our people,” he said.
The Deputy President’s visit underscores the government’s continued focus on inclusive development and the need to shield the country from divisive politics that threaten national cohesion.
