President William Ruto has urged leaders to put the interests of the country before their personal ambitions, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing Kenya’s challenges.
Speaking on Saturday at the funeral of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo in Bartabwa, Baringo County, President Ruto highlighted the importance of patriotism in leadership. He called on leaders to support national initiatives such as universal healthcare and the Affordable Housing Programme, stressing that decisions should be based on the country’s long-term prosperity rather than short-term popularity.
“As leaders, we should be patriotic and proud of our country. If Kenya succeeds, all of us will succeed,” he said. He urged leaders to stand together on issues that contribute to national development, despite their political differences.
On security, the President reassured residents of the Kerio Valley that firm measures had been put in place to ensure peace in the region. He noted that the government had deployed 5,000 security personnel including 3,000 soldiers and 2,000 officers from the General Service Unit and Administration Police to restore order.
“I have given firm instructions to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who understands the region, to deploy all the necessary resources and ensure peace prevails,” he said. He further outlined plans to open roads, schools, and health facilities in the region as part of the government’s economic transformation agenda.
President Ruto also paid tribute to the late Senator Cheptumo, describing him as a dedicated leader who worked tirelessly for peace in the North Rift. “Today, we celebrate peace because of committed leaders, among them Senator Cheptumo,” he said.
Other leaders present at the funeral echoed the President’s call for unity and patriotism. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi urged leaders to avoid politicizing the challenges facing universal healthcare, while Senate Speaker Amason Kingi lauded President Ruto for working with opposition leaders for the nation’s stability.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah called on religious leaders to focus on their spiritual duties instead of engaging in political debates.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot urged Kerio Valley residents to honor Senator Cheptumo’s legacy by embracing peace.
