Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula led a powerful delegation of national leaders on Sunday in a rallying call for national unity, responsible leadership, and an end to divisive political rhetoric during a Women Empowerment Programme held in Kitui Central, Kitui County.
The event, which attracted hundreds of women and community members, was graced by prominent political figures including Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. The leaders used the platform to emphasize the need for leaders to rise above tribal divisions and personal rivalries, especially at a time when the country is healing from past political tensions.
In his keynote address, Speaker Wetang’ula passionately urged Kenyans to reject the toxic politics of hatred, tribalism, and personal ambition that have undermined national cohesion. He stressed that the country needs healing, and that healing must begin with unity from the top leadership down to grassroots levels.
“We must break away from politics that divide our people,” said Wetang’ula. “This country does not need more tribal rhetoric. It needs leaders who prioritize unity, peace, and national progress. Healing begins with us—the leaders—and trickles down to the people.”
While not naming individuals directly, Wetang’ula made a thinly veiled reference to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, both of whom have recently been vocal critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration. He urged Kalonzo to chart his own political course and avoid being influenced by divisive actors.
“To my brother Kalonzo, I urge you to stand strong and independent,” he said. “Do not allow anyone to dictate your alliances or your enemies. Kenya belongs to all of us, and we must all behave as such. We will not tolerate leaders who thrive by spreading bitterness and creating enemies among communities.”
The Speaker praised the critical role of women in national development, calling them the pillars of families, communities, and the economy. He noted that Kitui, like other regions, deserves inclusive development that uplifts women, youth, and marginalized communities.
“Women are the backbone of our society. They carry this country on their backs, and we are here today to support, empower, and walk with them. No region should be left behind in development,” Wetang’ula said.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot echoed the Speaker’s sentiments and emphasized servant leadership as the cornerstone of progress.
“Politics should not be a platform for tearing each other apart,” said Cheruiyot. “We are here to lift one another, to work together in serving our people. That’s the kind of leadership Kenya needs.”
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah criticized leaders who label themselves as ‘generational’ yet remain disconnected from the people they claim to represent.
“True generational leadership is about empathy, connection, and vision,” Ichung’wah stated. “We have leaders who speak about youth leadership yet use the youth as mere stepping stones. That is dishonest and unpatriotic.”
Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse added that Kenya, and particularly regions like Kitui, are tired of empty political rhetoric and yearn for practical development solutions.
“We must reject tribal politics. Our people need roads, clean water, food security, jobs, and education. Anyone promoting hatred instead of development does not belong in leadership,” Mutuse said.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who joined the leaders at the event, endorsed the Speaker’s message and assured residents that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains focused on delivering its promises to the people.
“The wisdom shared here today is invaluable,” said Kindiki. “In 2022, our economy was in distress. Kenyans were struggling under the weight of the high cost of living. But today, we’ve made significant strides. Our GDP is now among the top six in Africa, and we are determined to keep this momentum.”
He reiterated that the government is committed to long-term economic transformation and inclusive development, especially targeting women and youth empowerment across all 47 counties.
The event concluded with a strong reaffirmation of national unity, responsible governance, and the rejection of political toxicity. The leaders called on Kenyans to support a leadership culture rooted in peace, inclusion, and development for all.
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