President William Ruto called on opposition leaders to apologize to the nation for their involvement in planning anti-government demonstrations.
This took place in a public address at the Kichwa cha Kati fish market in Malindi, Kilifi County. These protests resulted in the loss of lives and widespread destruction of property in various parts of the country.
President William Ruto. Photo/Courtesy
Ruto specifically pointed fingers at leaders from the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition. These mainly included Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The President accused them of insincerity in their mourning for the lives lost during the recent protests. He alleged that these opposition figures were actually the masterminds behind the chaotic riots that ensued.
The President emphasized that these leaders should be ashamed of their actions. He also urged them to take responsibility for the mayhem inflicted upon the people of Kenya. William Ruto expressed his determination to eliminate violence from the country’s political landscape.
From left: Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, Opposition Leader Raila Odinga and Former President Uhuru Kenyatta. The three attended attended a prayer service yesterday to mourn victims of police shooting. Photo/Courtesy
“Those leaders should be ashamed of themselves and apologise to the people of Kenya for the mayhem that they meted on the people of Kenya, and we are going to make sure that we will eject violence from Kenyan politics.”
President William Ruto
Ruto also addressed the issue of attacks on the police force. The leader claimed that members of the Azimio coalition were orchestrating violence targeting law enforcement officers.
“We cannot continue the culture of violence we cannot entertain the destruction of property and life on account of political competition…it is not going to be the same again.”
President William Ruto
He reassured the police that they should not be intimidated in the line of duty, as their primary role is to protect the lives and property of Kenyan citizens.
Regarding talks between the Kenya Kwanza government and the Odinga-led opposition. Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa stated that the Ruto faction would only consider negotiations that are conducted publicly.
Ichung’wa said it would allow all Kenyans to witness the discussions. He stressed that such transparent talks would be focused on benefiting the people, particularly in economic development.
President Ruto made these remarks during his official tour of the Coast region. He emphasized the need to put an end to the culture of violence and destruction caused by political competition. The President urged for a new era of peace and progress in Kenya.
