Reject ethnic profiling and unite for development, Kenyans urged

Energy Principal Secretary Alex Kamau speaking at the ceremony. /STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Kenyans have been called to reject ethnic profiling and embrace peaceful coexistence.

The call came from leaders during the inauguration of George Karobia as the new chairman of the Agikuyu community residing in Garissa.

The event brought together leaders from different political and social backgrounds, including the Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira who was the chief guest. Others were Garissa Township MP Dekow Mohamed, former Garissa Governor Ali Korane, and former Lagdera MP Mohamed Shidiye.

The leaders said hatred, division, and ethnic animosity have no place in modern-day Kenya, urging citizens to continue fostering harmony and integration among communities as the country pursues sustainable development.

Wachira underscored the importance of national cohesion, saying no one chooses their tribe or place of birth and that Kenya's diversity should be embraced rather than used to divide people.

"There is nobody who wrote a letter to choose which tribe they wanted to be born into, nor is there anyone who applied to come to Garissa. We all found ourselves here for one reason or another, and that is how God designed it," he said.

He said Kenyans must continue living together peacefully, noting that the country's cultural and ethnic diversity should be viewed as a source of strength.

"I am very happy to join all of you in celebrating this milestone where people from different communities have gathered together. It clearly shows that we are one people despite our different backgrounds."

The PS said peaceful coexistence was essential for national progress and economic transformation.

"Peaceful coexistence is not just a moral obligation—it is a necessity for development. This gathering is a testament to the harmony that exists among our communities, but it is also a reminder of our collective responsibility to continue building bridges, not walls; to foster understanding, not division."

He urged Kenyans to remain united, saying the county can only achieve meaningful development if communities work together in peace and mutual respect.

Korane described Garissa as a cosmopolitan county that belongs to all Kenyans, regardless of their ethnic origin, and challenged residents to continue nurturing unity.

"Let this installation ceremony not only be a celebration of leadership but also a renewal of our pledge to coexist peacefully. Always strive to speak with one voice when it comes to matters of peace," Korane said.

Dekow hailed the Agikuyu community for its contribution to the socio-economic growth of the constituency, saying every community has an equal stake in Garissa's development.

"The Agikuyu community has long been an integral part of our constituency, contributing immensely to our growth and prosperity. Their celebrations are our celebrations, and it reflects the unity and diversity that make our community stronger," he said.

The lawmaker said Garissa's diversity should continue to be celebrated rather than exploited for political gain.

"Garissa is home to many communities, the Kikuyu community included, each with its own culture, language, and traditions. Yet beneath our differences lies something greater that binds us together—our shared humanity."

He pledged to continue championing inclusivity, dialogue, and equal representation for all communities.

"We have resolved as residents of Garissa that our politics will be driven by development. We have no room for politics founded on emotions, lies, propaganda, or ethnic divisions. Those belong to people who are not interested in the progress of our county."

Karobia pledged to use his leadership to strengthen unity, dialogue, and cooperation among all communities in the region.

"We cannot afford to live in isolation or suspicion. We must see each other not as rivals but as neighbours, friends, and partners in progress," he said.

"The challenges we face, whether economic, social, or security-related, do not discriminate based on ethnicity. They affect all of us, and the only way we will overcome them is by standing together, united in purpose and spirit."

He expressed optimism about his new role, saying his leadership would prioritise inclusivity, engagement, and development for the benefit of all residents.

During the ceremony, several leaders also drummed up support for President William Ruto's re-election, saying his administration has not only accelerated development across the country but has also made significant strides in fostering national unity and bringing Kenyans together irrespective of their ethnic backgrounds.