PRESIDENT WILLIAM RUTO HAS URGED THE PUBLIC TO CEASE PROTESTS AND MAINTAIN CALM
In his address at Kinango Technical and Vocational College in Kwale County on Saturday, President Ruto reiterated that stability is crucial for progress and prosperity, calling on all Kenyans to work together to foster a peaceful environment.
“You have raised your concerns. I have heard you. Now give me time to implement. The protests and violence we are witnessing will only serve to destroy the great country we have. We need to use dialogue to address our challenges, not divisive politics,” President Ruto pleaded.
His remarks were made in response to the continuing demonstrations across the country, where protesters have demanded his resignation despite his withdrawal of the controversial Finance Bill 2024 and his decision to dismiss and re-hire Cabinet Secretaries.
Despite this pressure, Ruto has continued to encourage citizens to set aside political differences and work together towards national progress.
“We have decided to put our political differences aside to work towards rebuilding our nation, irrespective of our political affiliation,” Ruto stated. “There is immense value in working together to make Kenya greater.”
Although Ruto bowed to pressure and dismissed his cabinet, his recent appointments have sparked further backlash. He nominated four key opposition members to his new cabinet: Orange Democratic Movement chairman John Mbadi (nominated MP) as CS for Treasury, Wycliffe Oparanya (former Kakamega Governor) as CS for Cooperatives and SMEs, Ali Hassan Joho (former Mombasa Governor) as CS for Mining and Blue Economy, and Opiyo Wandayi (opposition minority leader in the National Assembly) as CS for Energy.Former CSs Kithure Kindiki, Salim Mvurya, Kipchumba Murkomen, Alfred Mutua, Rebecca Miano, Aden Duale, and Soipan Tuya were recalled.
Defending his new cabinet formation, President Ruto described it as a team of winners. “As we are forming this administration, I am persuaded beyond doubt that we are going to unlock Kenya’s potential and make it the greater country we have always wanted it to be,” Ruto told Kwale residents.
He expressed concerns that political discord has clouded the nation’s vision, leading to opposition of beneficial projects based solely on party affiliations.
“Let us forget our political affiliations and work towards development,” he urged.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed Ruto’s call for peace, cautioning against divisions that could lead the country into chaos.
“We do not want our country to become like Sudan or others embroiled in conflict. Such unrest will ruin our nation and deter investors. For those who have lost their lives due to the protests, we extend our condolences and hope that Kenya will never witness such incidents again,” Mudavadi said.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi supported President Ruto’s call for calm, commending the President for his receptiveness to public concerns. “There is a season for everything. It is even stated in the Bible. The time for protests is over; now let us give the President the time to work,” Kingi stated.
He highlighted that constructive dialogue and patience are key to resolving national issues. “We have told the President we are hungry, but if we kick the pot, there will be no food. Let us give him time to cook,” Kingi pleaded.
