National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has urged Kenyans to reject tribal politics and embrace national unity, saying the country's progress depends on leaders and citizens placing national interests above ethnic and political considerations.
Wetang'ula said Kenya can only achieve lasting development through unity, peaceful coexistence and respect for democratic competition.
"Kenya is bigger than any individual, and leadership comes from God. Our focus must remain on uniting the country as we work towards becoming a first-world nation," he said.
Speaking in Likoni, Mombasa County, during a fundraiser for the Salute Community-Based Organisation (CBO), the Speaker cautioned against attempts to divide the country along tribal lines, insisting that all communities have an equal stake in the nation's leadership and development.
"There are no small or big tribes in Kenya. Every community has a right to lead this nation. We must compete vigorously during elections, but once the results are announced, we should embrace one another and work together for the common good," he said.
Wetang'ula also condemned what he described as a growing trend of politicians sponsoring violence through hired gangs to disrupt political meetings and public gatherings.
"It is unfortunate that some politicians are hiring goons to interfere with our hard-earned peace. If they need goons, let them hire their own sons and daughters, not innocent children of this country," he said.
The Speaker praised former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for placing the country's interests ahead of personal political ambitions following the 2022 General Election.
"We competed fiercely in 2022, but once the contest was over, Raila demonstrated that Kenya was bigger than any individual. That spirit helped pave the way for the broad-based government, which has created opportunities for leaders from across the political divide to serve the nation," he said.
Wetang'ula stressed that political competition should never undermine national cohesion and called for respect, peace and stability across the country.
Turning to the economy, he expressed confidence in Kenya's future, saying the country was on course for sustained growth and prosperity.
He credited President William Ruto's administration with laying the foundation for economic transformation while noting that Kenya's democratic institutions have continued to mature.
"This country has made significant strides. Previous presidents have served their constitutional terms and handed over power peacefully. Kenya belongs to all of us, and every community has an equal right to produce leaders," he said.
The fundraiser was organised by Likoni MP Mishi Mboko to raise funds for the purchase of a bus for the Salute CBO.
He described community-driven initiatives as critical engines of inclusive growth and praised women leading the organisation for their contribution to social and economic development.
"It is inspiring to see women at the forefront of this noble cause. When women are empowered economically and socially, they become catalysts for positive change within their families and communities," he said.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi echoed Wetang'ula's sentiments, saying the Coast region would not support leaders who seek to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.
"The Coast is a cosmopolitan region, and that is why we support inclusive leadership. Kenya has made tremendous progress in moving away from the outdated politics of ethnicity," he said.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho thanked President Ruto for what he termed inclusive leadership that has ensured all regions receive equal consideration.
"For many years our people were ignored economically and politically. Today we have agreed that we too can lead and contribute to making this country great," Joho said.
Mboko thanked Wetang'ula for his mentorship and support, saying leaders have a responsibility to uplift others.
"We are products of good guidance. When our time comes, we will also extend a helping hand to others. Collectively, we believe the country is on the right path towards prosperity," she said.
The fundraiser attracted local leaders, community members and development partners who pledged support for the organisation's efforts to improve livelihoods and expand opportunities for residents in the Coast region.
