Bartabwa: The Speaker of the Senate, Amason Kingi, and his National Assembly counterpart, Moses Wetangula, have called for cohesiveness amongst parliamentarians in order to drive the country forward. The duo made their appeal during the funeral service of Baringo Senator William Cheptumo at Arap Moi Secondary School in Bartabwa, where they issued a word of caution concerning recent heightened political temperatures in the country, which they noted can hinder peace and tranquility.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kingi expressed his concern over the current leadership trends that divide the country along tribal lines. He urged leaders to become agents of peace and unity instead. ‘If we want to stand as one country, we need to unite; let’s refrain from dividing our people along tribal lines because we are one people,’ Kingi said. He emphasized that political competitions should not escalate to causing animosity and rift amongst leaders.
Wetangula echoed these sentiments, warning leaders to avoid actions that could lead the country back to the post-election violence experienced in 2007/2008. He urged parliamentarians to use their platforms to promote unity. Wetangula also acknowledged the challenges faced by the current administration and called on leaders to instill hope rather than blame. ‘It seems we have forgotten the spirit of leadership. When there is a problem, the answer is to look for a solution instead of laying blame on others,’ he stated.
The call for unity was supported by President William Ruto, who attended the event and emphasized the need for patriotic leadership to guide Kenya’s future. Narok County Senator Ledama Olekina also urged leaders from both houses to unite for the country’s sake, warning of potential divine consequences if they fail to do so.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi praised Senator Cheptumo for his politics of peace and urged other leaders to follow his example. He criticized the politics of negativity and urged for a more constructive approach. Cheboi stated, ‘You can win an election without hurling abusive words at others or accusing your competitor.’
The funeral service was attended by top dignitaries including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Kipchumba Murkomen (Interior), Davis Chirchir (Roads), Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa (NA), and Aaron Cheruiyot (Senate). Most speakers remembered Cheptumo as a loyal and peaceful leader, respected by both young and experienced leaders from the county and beyond.