The recent political agreement between President William Ruto and opposition leader Raila Odinga has garnered substantial support from community leaders in the Rift Valley region. The Luo Council of Elders in Uasin Gishu, under the leadership of Chairman Mark Orinda, has expressed their approval and optimism about the newfound cooperation between the two veteran politicians. This move, according to the elders, is seen as a significant step towards national unity and healing.
“We are sure the deal will help to quickly heal the country and unite all communities,” Orinda stated. He emphasized that politics should not be a battleground of enmity, particularly post-elections, but rather a platform for collaborative progress. He stressed the importance of all involved parties working together for the greater good of Kenya.
Orinda’s remarks came during a meeting of community leaders in Eldoret, which included prominent figures such as Moses Ochieng, Andrew Sure, and Joseph Ochieng. Sure, while lauding the national political gesture, called for the same spirit of inclusivity to be reflected at the county level. He urged Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii to embrace diversity within his administration by including the Luo community and other local residents.
“Ruto and Raila have shown us that tribalism is unacceptable and we are asking Governor Bii to do the same by making his administration all-inclusive,” Sure said. He also appealed to the governor to appoint two professionals from their community who had been shortlisted for positions within the county administration.
Joseph Ochieng echoed these sentiments, highlighting their primary interest in peace and unity among all communities in Eldoret and beyond. He praised the integration of opposition leaders into the government, viewing it as a positive move towards fostering harmony.
Adding to the chorus of support, ACK Bishop of Eldoret Thomas Ruto welcomed the unity among leaders, urging the government to prioritize addressing issues raised by the youth. “We welcome the new working relationship between our leaders but they should also work to deal with issues like corruption and other ills as raised by our youth,” Bishop Ruto said. He stressed the need for job creation to ensure the youth feel included in the government’s vision for the country.
The political agreement has sparked excitement and support across the Rift Valley, rekindling memories of past cooperation between Ruto and Raila. Political and community leaders allied with both figures in the region have praised the reunion, believing it will stabilize the country and enhance peace and unity.
Azimio politician Micah Kigen from Elgeyo Marakwet commended Raila for his “magnanimity and wisdom,” stating that Raila has put the country first in a timely effort to rescue it from turbulence and potential disintegration. Kigen called on Kenyans to set aside their differences and support the political reforms and economic transformations that could arise from this reunion.
“My plea goes to the youth who stand to benefit most if the Raila-Ruto reunion succeeds. To succeed, we need to support our leaders and participate actively,” Kigen said.
Bishop Ruto concluded by underscoring the need for national stability to achieve development and create more job opportunities. The unity displayed by Ruto and Raila has been seen as a beacon of hope for many, with the potential to steer Kenya towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.
