Nairobi: Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration have come out strongly to defend the government against mounting attacks from the opposition, saying the criticisms are misguided and risk undermining national unity.
According to Kenya News Agency, during an empowerment forum at Ithanga, Murang'a County, the Woman Representative Betty Maina, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, and Ndia MP George Kariuki urged opposition politicians to respect the Office of the President, stressing that the government remains firm and committed to delivering on the promises it made to the people.
'The presidency is an institution that deserves respect regardless of political differences. This government is focused on implementing its development agenda for Kenyans, and no amount of heckling will derail that mission,' said Kariuki. He added that the current political heat could harm important government programmes, emphasizing the need to prevent political bickering from slowing down service delivery.
The leaders accused the opposition of engaging in endless political rhetoric that does little to benefit ordinary citizens. They argued that at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges, constructive dialogue and support for government programmes are needed rather than constant confrontation.
Eric Wamumbi stated, 'Kenyans are tired of political noise and what they want are tangible results and improved services, jobs, and opportunities.' He urged opposition leaders to channel their energy into providing solutions instead of trading insults.
The leaders also expressed concern that escalating political temperatures could disrupt essential government functions and weaken service delivery to citizens. They warned that unnecessary confrontations only serve to sow division at the expense of progress and urged opposition leaders to engage in sober political discussions, emphasizing the electorate's interest in real development over verbal sparring between politicians.
Wamumbi added, 'Let us talk with wisdom and restraint. Our people want solutions to the challenges they face daily. They want better roads, clean water, affordable food, and accessible healthcare.'
The pro-government leaders further highlighted that the Kenya Kwanza administration is in the process of rolling out projects aimed at transforming lives across the country. Maina stated, 'This administration has already set in motion initiatives that will uplift millions of Kenyans. We are committed to keeping our promises and that is why we won't allow distractions to get in the way.'
She also pointed out that government projects require stability and national unity to succeed, cautioning that continuous political fights risk derailing the gains achieved so far. Maina emphasized, 'Development is a collective effort. It cannot thrive in an environment where leaders are busy undermining each other and so we must unite as a nation and move forward together.'
Meanwhile, Maina urged the county government to regulate the issuance of liquor licences as a measure to curb alcohol abuse, decrying the excessive proliferation of bars, including near schools and residential areas. She called for intensified efforts in the fight against adulterated alcohol and second-generation alcohol, which also translates into loss of revenue for the country.