Senate Speaker Kenneth Lusaka has said he will work with all leaders, even those who contributed to his downfall as Bungoma governor.
He said the burden of not forgiving was too heavy to carry and only works towards dividing the community further.
"I know the likes of [Bungoma Senator Moses] Wetang'ula fought me last time and even contributed to my losing the Bungoma governor post, but I will not carry the burden of unforgiveness," he said in Tongaren constituency on Saturday.
Lusaka is seeking to recapture the seat he lost in 2017 to Wycliffe Wangamati.
He said despite losing, God intended for him and Wetang'ula to work together and that's why they both ended up at the Senate.
Lusaka has been under intense pressure from allies and critics to shun Wetang'ula with whom the Speaker has maintained a cordial relationship.
Wetang'ula has led an onslaught against Wangamati after the governor was involved in a failed coup to topple him as Ford Kenya leader.
After the failed coup, Wetang'ula immediately started campaigning for Lusaka and promised Wangamati a run for his money in next year's election.
Lusaka said it was high time the Luhya community spoke with one voice and invited all leaders to join hands.
"As a community we gain much when we go bargaining as a team as opposed to going as individuals," he said.
Speaking at the same function, Wetang'ula said the past was behind them.
"I know in the last election we were on different sides and the election went as it went but it is important that we now work together," he said.
"When he came at the Senate I told him brother let's let bygones be bygones, and showed him the ropes of Parliament as a veteran."
Wetang'ula described Lusaka as a visionary leader and a team player with a good track record.
He said Lusaka is always humble and respectful, qualities of a good leader.
Wetang'ula promised to fully support Lusaka to recapture the governor seat.
Edited by Josephine M. Mayuya
