Ruto Fires Back at Critics of Broad-Based Government

President William Ruto has sharply responded to critics of his broad-based government, emphasizing the primacy of national unity over individual or party interests.

Addressing a gathering in Keumbu, Kisii County on Tuesday, Ruto asserted that the nation’s collective well-being must take precedence over other considerations.

He stated, “Naona viongozi wengine wako na shida na muungano wa wakenya, wako na shida na serikali nimeunda kuleta wakenya pamoja, nataka niwaambie hawa viongozi mjue kwamba inafika wakati umoja wa taifa, progress ya Kenya, transformation ya nchi yetu ni ya muhimu kuliko vyama, mirengo na makabila,” which translates to, “I see other leaders have issues with the unity of Kenyans, with the government I’ve created to bring Kenyans together. I want to tell these leaders that there comes a time when the unity of the nation, the progress of Kenya, and the transformation of our country are more important than parties, sects, and tribes.”

Ruto stressed that serving the greater good of the nation is a more patriotic endeavor than pursuing personal or partisan gains. He urged leaders to set aside divisive tactics and focus on the unity and progress of Kenya.

“This is not a time for division or personal interest. Kenya’s greatness depends on our collective effort and unity. I call on those yet to embrace the value of unity and collaboration to do so now,” Ruto added.

The President is currently on a three-day development tour of the Gusii region, which started on Monday. Following a complete reshuffle of his Cabinet on July 11, 2024, Ruto had pledged to form a broad-based government.

He has since included five members from the Opposition party ODM in his new Cabinet, with four of them confirmed as Cabinet Secretaries and one pending National Assembly approval.