President William Ruto has reaffirmed his commitment to national unity, declaring that those who believe in tribalism and ethnic divisions have no space in Kenya. Speaking during his visit to Garissa County on Thursday, Ruto insisted that his administration is dedicated to ensuring all Kenyans receive equal treatment, free from discrimination.
The President highlighted his government’s broad-based approach, which he said is designed to include all communities in the governance process. “It is my responsibility and I intend to unite all the people of Kenya because Kenya did not make a mistake to put us all as Kenyans,” he stated. “That is why I have come up with the broad-based government that brings all Kenyans on board. Those who believe in tribalism and division have no space in Kenya.”
One of Ruto’s key announcements was the abolishment of the vetting requirement for issuing national identification cards, particularly for residents of Northern Kenya. The policy had subjected people from the region to an additional vetting process before they could obtain IDs, a practice that had been in place for 60 years.
On Wednesday, the President officially abolished the vetting process in Wajir County, setting the stage for easier access to national identity documents for residents of North Eastern Kenya. “I was here, and I told you I will abolish this 60-year discrimination. Before, the people of Northern Kenya were subjected to vetting as if they are not citizens of this country,” Ruto said.
In a move aimed at improving access to essential services, the President also launched a passport office in Garissa, eliminating the need for residents to travel to Nairobi for passport applications. “I am going to open the passport office today. There is no need for people traveling to Nairobi to get passports,” he declared.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who accompanied the President, echoed Ruto’s sentiments, emphasizing the need to eliminate ethnic divisions. “There are people who do not believe in the unity of Kenya; they believe in one side against the other. We want to support you to make sure every part of Kenya feels included,” Kindiki stated.
On infrastructure development, Ruto announced progress on the 750km Isiolo-Mandera road, a Sh100 billion project funded by the World Bank, African Development Bank, Arab banks, and the Kenyan government. “Already, seven contractors are on site building the road,” he said.
Ruto’s visit underscored his administration’s efforts to foster national unity, enhance service delivery, and integrate marginalized regions into Kenya’s development agenda.
