Uhuru’s Call for Leaders to Heed Kenyans’ Concerns Ahead of Ruto’s Mt Kenya Visit

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta emphasized the importance of leaders addressing the public’s concerns during a service in Meru. His comments come amid political tensions in the Mt. Kenya region, particularly following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua. President Ruto’s upcoming visit is seen as a pivotal moment for his leadership amidst growing opposition and public dissent.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on Kenyan leaders to pay attention to the concerns expressed by their constituents. His remarks were made during a thanksgiving service for the new Bishop of the Meru Diocese, Jackson Murugara, held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He stressed the critical role that the church serves in guiding leadership and emphasized the necessity for leaders to listen to the cries of the people.

This appeal comes amidst heightened political tensions in the Mt. Kenya region, particularly following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His upcoming visit to the region will be President William Ruto’s first since this political fallout. Uhuru’s attendance at the service alongside notable former political figures signifies his interest and influence in the ongoing discourse.

The political atmosphere is further complicated by allegations of betrayal among Gachagua’s supporters, who feel abandoned by Ruto. Contrastingly, government loyalists are working to repair relations with the electorate in anticipation of the 2027 elections. St. Joseph’s Church has imposed strict protocols that prevent politicians from addressing the congregation, reinforcing this approach in several other churches as well.

Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit reiterated the enforcement of these protocols, clarifying that the exclusion of political figures from speaking at services applies to all, including President Ruto. Gachagua, present at a church service in Nyeri, criticized Ruto, expressing his intent to politically challenge him in future elections.

As political frictions escalate, divisions among leaders have become more pronounced. Some members of parliament who supported Gachagua’s impeachment are shifting alliances in a bid to restore their political credibility by associating with government initiatives. At a recent event in Laikipia County, MP Mwangi Kiunjuri praised Ruto for his infrastructure contributions, urging citizens to greet the President positively.

Nevertheless, animosity towards Ruto is palpable in certain areas of Mt. Kenya due to rising living costs, increased taxes, and controversial appointments. Incidents of unrest, where youths disrupted events with stones, have highlighted discontent with the current administration. Such tensions pressure leaders to seek novel engagement strategies with voters.

As Ruto prepares for his visit to Mt. Kenya, he faces a significant challenge in favoring the divided populace he once relied upon for electoral success. His visit is anticipated to be crucial in assessing his political capital in a region where factions are increasingly evident, influencing the upcoming electoral landscape.

This evolving scenario in Mt. Kenya underscores the necessity for leaders to foster dialogue with constituents while addressing local grievances effectively to rebuild trust and align political strategies with public sentiment.

In conclusion, former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s call to leaders emphasizes the urgent need to listen to the concerns of Kenyans amidst escalating political tensions in the Mt. Kenya region. As President Ruto prepares for his visit, the dynamics of local political alliances and public sentiment present a complex challenge. Leaders striving to reestablish relationships with the electorate must navigate these tensions to ensure a more unified political landscape leading to the forthcoming elections.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke