President William Ruto has publicly thanked Opposition leader Raila Odinga for his role in uniting the country. During a visit to Kondele, Kisumu County, on Saturday, Ruto acknowledged Raila’s contributions to fostering peace and national unity.
Speaking to a crowd in the region, which is traditionally a stronghold for Raila, Ruto expressed his appreciation for the former Prime Minister’s patriotism. “Nataka nisimamame hapa Kondele nimwambie ndugu yangu mkubwa Raila Amollo Odinga, asante sana kwa kuwa mkenya mzalendo… umoja wa wakenya kwa kunisaidia niunganishe taifa letu,” Ruto said, thanking Raila for helping him bring the nation together.
Pres William Ruto during Siaya rally. Photo: William Ruto/Facebook
Ruto further described Raila as a great leader who prioritized the country’s welfare over personal or political differences. He emphasized that Raila’s decision to work with the government has been instrumental in ensuring the country’s stability and prosperity.
The President, who has been on a four-day working tour of the Nyanza region, humorously recalled past instances when he faced hostility in Kisumu. He joked with the Kondele residents, saying, “Mkiendelea kunitesa nitawashtaki kwa Baba na mkizidi nitawashtaki kwa Mungu,” indicating that he would seek intervention from both Raila and divine forces if they continued to give him a hard time.
Ruto’s remarks highlight a moment of political cooperation that could signal a new chapter in Kenyan politics, with leaders across the divide working together for the nation’s greater good.
Pres William Ruto during a past media engagement. Photo: William Ruto Source: Facebook
Also, Ruto joked that should they give him a hard time this time around, he will report them to Raila and God.
He further joked that he did not know that people of Kondele were good people.
“Watu wa Kondele, kumbe ni nyinyi? Niko na kesi kubwa na nyinyi watu wa kondele. Mmenitesa sana. Mkiendelea kunitesa nitawashtaki kwa Baba na mkizidi nitawashtaki kwa Mungu. Nilikuja hapa, si mnajua vile mlinifanya hata sikuamini ni nyinyi. Yaani nyinyi huwa wangwana namna hii?”
