Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyan leaders to prioritize national unity over ethnic interests, emphasizing that involvement in ethnic and sectarian agendas by national leaders is contrary to constitutional provisions.

During an interdenominational prayer and thanksgiving service at Amutala Stadium, Kindiki criticized the current focus on ethnic interests by some leaders, particularly amid ongoing divisions among Kenya Kwanza allies.

National Unity Over Ethnic Interests

Kindiki highlighted that the ongoing public debate on promoting national unity, inclusion, and shared prosperity strengthens Kenya’s democratic credentials and the quest for a free, secure, and stable nation. He emphasized that the President and his principal assistant have a constitutional duty to lead the collective project of forging a national identity and sense of belonging, and to harmonize sub-national interests for the collective good of the country.

In a pointed critique, Kindiki suggested that the role currently performed by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which involves uniting families and communities, should be left to elders and lower-category public leaders. He argued that national leaders must focus on defending the national interest, rather than engaging in ethnic or sectarian pursuits, which he deemed unconstitutional and a violation of public trust.

“If God and the people of Kenya privilege you to defend the common national interest, you must allow other lower-level leaders to spearhead family, community, and sub-national agendas. That way, the vision of one nation, one flag, and one people will be accelerated,”

Kindiki

In related developments, Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen blamed Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for exacerbating conflicts within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) between President William Ruto and his deputy. Murkomen urged Kahiga, as a leading figure among Mt. Kenya leaders, to calm the tensions. He also cautioned residents against attempting to “own” Gachagua, stressing that the Deputy President represents the entire country, not just the Mathira constituency.