HOMA BAY —In a speech aimed at mending divisions and looking ahead, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Sunday threw his weight behind President William Ruto’s push for national unity and praised opposition leader Raila Odinga for playing a part in it.
Addressing crowds at the 62nd Madaraka Day celebrations in Homa Bay, Kindiki called for all Kenyans to rally behind a shared vision of economic freedom and inclusiveness.
“This generation owes a debt,” he said. “A debt to those who fought for our political independence. And we must repay it by delivering economic freedom to every Kenyan.”
His comments came at a time when President Ruto and Odinga once fierce political rivals appear to be working more closely. Their public warmth in recent months has raised hopes for a less divisive political climate.
“Between yourself and His Excellency Raila Odinga,” Kindiki told Ruto during the ceremony, “you are sending a clear message to the nation that we must break down barriers of politics, tribe, and religion.”
That message landed in a county historically seen as an opposition stronghold. Yet Sunday’s event was filled with smiles and symbolism, with both government and opposition figures sharing the stage.
Kindiki, a law professor by training and long-time ally of the president, painted the Ruto administration’s economic vision as one built on fairness. He said the government was deliberately directing more funds to traditionally overlooked regions and sectors.
“It’s not just tea and coffee anymore,” he said. “We are investing in livestock, in fisheries, and in the blue economy. Every Kenyan must feel part of this journey.”
He added that the government’s spending was aimed at correcting long-standing inequalities and honouring what he called “historical debts” a nod to regions that had been left behind in past development plans.
Though he spoke firmly in support of the current administration’s plans, Kindiki also appealed for political cooperation across party lines, saying no single leader or group could build the country alone.
“We must move as one,” he said. “No matter your political colours, your faith, or your community Kenya belongs to us all.”
Observers have noted a shift in tone from both Ruto’s camp and Odinga’s camp in recent months. While no formal alliance has been announced, the thawing of relations has led to fewer public clashes and more calls for dialogue.
Analysts say that message of unity could resonate with a public increasingly frustrated by high living costs and economic pressure, and weary of perennial political showdowns.
Still, critics have warned that unity must come with substance, not just ceremony. Some civil society groups say reconciliation efforts must be backed by stronger accountability, fair distribution of resources, and real steps to reduce inequality.
But on Sunday, the mood was hopeful even unusually so for a national day often thick with political undercurrents.
Standing on a stage flanked by Lake Victoria, Kindiki ended his speech with a note of optimism.
“With unity, inclusion, and the right leadership,” he said, “Kenya will not just move forward it will rise.”
