Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has called for unity and patriotism, emphasizing that Kenya must rise above political differences to safeguard the country’s future. Speaking on Friday during the second day of the national executive retreat in Karen, Nairobi, Raila underscored the importance of national cohesion in achieving long-term development goals.
In what appeared to be a message to both allies and opponents, Raila defended his support for a broad-based government, stressing that national interest should always take precedence over personal or political ambition.
“I believe strongly that no matter our disagreements, our visions and disappointments, we have a country first,” he said. “We may hold strong decisions as we wish, but without a country to implement the ideas, they will remain mere wishes and deferred dreams.”
The retreat, officially opened by President William Ruto on Thursday, has brought together Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and other senior government officials. It serves as a platform for evaluating the progress of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which focuses on six core pillars: lowering the cost of living, eliminating hunger, creating jobs, widening the tax base, improving the foreign exchange balance, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Raila’s remarks come at a time when political tensions remain high, following weeks of public outcry over controversial government policies and the contentious Finance Bill. His statement is seen as an attempt to bridge the growing divide and encourage a spirit of constructive dialogue and shared responsibility.
By reaffirming his commitment to Kenya’s unity, Raila reminded leaders and citizens alike that without a stable and united nation, even the most ambitious visions will fail to materialize. His message echoed a broader call for patriotism, compromise, and focus on common goals over partisan interests.
As Kenya navigates its economic and political challenges, such moments of reflection and dialogue among national leaders may prove vital in shaping a path toward sustained peace, stability, and prosperity.
