Broad-based government allies call for peace, reject ethnic politics

The leaders, led by Kajiado West MP George Sunkuiya, UDA National Youth Leader Kariuki Ngunjiri and Kajiado Youth Leader Samuel Tentemo, spoke during the coronation and thanksgiving ceremony for Elijah Leintoi, a newly installed Assistant Chief for the Kimuka area.

The leaders congratulated Leintoi on his appointment and urged him to use his new position to promote peace, unity and cohesion among residents.

Sunkuiya called on residents of Kajiado West to shun ethnic divisions and embrace politics that brings communities together, warning that divisive politics could undermine national unity.

“Let us reject ethnic politics and focus on issues that unite us as a country. We must work together to ensure peace and cohesion in our communities,” Sunkuiya said.

UDA National Youth Leader Kariuki Ngunjiri, meanwhile, endorsed President William Ruto’s re-election bid, saying he would embark on a nationwide campaign to promote national unity and advocate for politics free from ethnic balkanisation.

Ngunjiri also criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of promoting what he described as isolationist politics targeting the Mt Kenya region.

“We reject isolationist politics because guaranteeing the long-term interests of my community is about bringing all communities in Kenya together to move this country forward, not seclusion,” Ngunjiri said.

He urged young people to take a leading role in promoting peaceful political engagement and resisting attempts to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.

On his part, Kajiado Youth Leader Samuel Tentemo thanked the President for what he described as increased government investment and opportunities for young people and minority communities in the region.

Tentemo cited affordable housing projects and the NYOTA programme as some of the initiatives that have created employment and economic opportunities for young people.

“We are grateful for the inclusion that the President has extended to the minority communities in Kenya,” Tentemo said.

The leaders further urged the newly appointed Assistant Chief to work closely with residents and other government agencies to strengthen peace, security and service delivery in Kimuka.