Why Is Dialogue Crucial for Kenya’s Progress?
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on Kenyans to resolve national issues through peaceful dialogue rather than resorting to violence. Speaking in Lamu County during the Economic Empowerment Forum for Women Groups and Saccos, Kindiki emphasized that development cannot take place in an environment of chaos.
“Our countrymen, I’m asking you that we find ways to talk and dialogue, we cannot build the country through chaos. I plead with you, my fellow countrymen, we cannot take our country forward through chaos and incitement. We must learn to solve our problems through consultations and peaceful ways,” said Kindiki.
He reminded citizens that the right to protest and express concerns exists, but it should be exercised peacefully. “Every Kenyan is free to express themselves and to raise objections, but let’s do it peacefully. There is nothing more precious than the peace and stability of a country,” he added.
How Is the Government Addressing Development Equally?
As he concluded a series of forums across five coastal counties, Kindiki reiterated the government’s focus on equitable development. He highlighted the administration’s progress on key infrastructure projects like roads and markets, citing Lamu East’s first-ever tarmac road as a milestone.
“We are not just merely talking about two terms. We are saying if we have done 400 new modern markets in the first term, we will do another 2000 markets in the second term. We cannot claim to be a united country when there is a constituency in this country without a tarmac road. This is what President Ruto is changing,” he stated.
He stressed that all Kenyans, regardless of background, deserve equal access to national development. “You cannot say you don’t deserve development because of where you come from or where you were born, we will not accept that,” he said.
What Is the Government Doing to Promote Inclusion and Fairness?
Kindiki noted improvements in the issuance of national IDs, particularly in marginalized regions, saying the process has become more accessible under President Ruto’s directive. “Because of the President’s instructions, now all Kenyans are being given IDs without many complications. There is also no fee, and now our youths can get it without challenges. No fee and no extra vetting,” he said.
He also criticized the opposition for lacking a concrete vision, saying, “Our opponents are plan-less, they are stuck in Ruto Must Go, One Term, Kasongo. Is there such a manifesto like that? They don’t have anything for Kenyans.”
By Lucky Anyanje
Kindiki concluded by urging the opposition to offer constructive alternatives rather than inciting unrest.
