March 8, 2025
President William Ruto clarified that the agreement between Kenya Kwanza and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is not about power-sharing or the 2027 elections.
The President emphasized that the framework agreement signed with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is focused on promoting national unity and driving the country’s social, economic, and political transformation.
Ruto outlined the key areas of focus under the agreement, including addressing youth unemployment, fostering national unity, enhancing inclusivity in governance, promoting integrity in public service, and curbing government wastage.
The President reiterated his commitment to serving all Kenyans fairly, regardless of their voting preferences in the previous election. “For those who share the vision of a united, prosperous, and inclusive Kenya, we must work together,” he said.
Speaking at the funeral of former Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Wafula Chebukati in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, President Ruto was joined by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretaries, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Governors George Natembeya (Trans Nzoia), Ken Lusaka (Bungoma), and Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu), as well as Members of Parliament and County Assemblies.
President Ruto stressed that the government is focused on transforming the country equitably without discrimination. He called for the elimination of tribalism, division, and hatred, and urged Kenyans to move forward as one nation.
Regarding the issuance of National Identification Cards, the President affirmed that no Kenyan would be profiled based on their ethnicity, religion, or region, and that he would not support any policy that divides citizens into groups.
On universal healthcare under the Social Health Authority, President Ruto restated the government’s commitment to ensuring the programme’s success, noting that it was improving healthcare equity. Since October, the SHA has registered 21 million users, compared to seven million under the defunct National Hospital Insurance Fund.
Eulogizing Wafula Chebukati, President Ruto described him as a man of immense integrity, courage, and intelligence. He praised Chebukati for his unwavering commitment to doing what was right, even in the face of immense pressure during the 2022 presidential election.
“Wafula Chebukati was a courageous and bold leader who could not be threatened or blackmailed. He did the right thing,” the President said, highlighting Chebukati’s role in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening devolution, citing increased funding for devolved units. Speaker Wetang’ula expressed broad support for the unity pact between President Ruto and Mr. Odinga, stressing the need for political harmony to move the country forward.
Governor Natembeya called on Kenyans to honor the late Chebukati’s legacy by remembering his good deeds, while Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang commended the President for working with Mr. Odinga to unite the country and urged local leaders to follow suit by avoiding divisive politics.