Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has issued a patriotic call for unity and national cohesion amid political divisions.
In a subtle message to the opposition and which appeared to defend his position to form the broad-based government, Raila stressed that Kenya must always come before political differences, ambitions, or frustrations.
“I believe strongly that no matter our disagreements, our visions and disappointments, we have a country first," he said.
While acknowledging the political differences which he noted define Kenya's democratic space, Raila cautioned against allowing such divisions to undermine the nation’s foundation.
“We may hold strong decisions as we wish,” he said. “...but without a country to implement the ideas, they will remain mere wishes and deferred dreams.”
Raila made the remarks Friday during the second day of the national executive retreat in Karen, Nairobi.
President William Ruto, who officially opened the retreat Thursday, was also present.
It brings together Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, alongside other senior government officials.
The meeting provides a moment for the team to take stock of progress, evaluate impact and make informed decisions about the path ahead.
It focuses on the progress made in the Kenya Kwanza's Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The agenda focuses on six strategic areas of lowering the cost of living, eliminating hunger, creating jobs, widening the tax base, improving foreign exchange balance and promoting inclusive growth.
