President Uhuru Kenyatta’s has called on leaders to resist the urge to preach and sell negativity and instead focus on building bridges to strengthen the fabric our patriotism and nationhood.
In his New Year message to Kenyans from State House, Mombasa on Tuesday evening, President Kenyatta said the new decade presents the country with immense opportunities to foster unity, prosperity, social change and deepen democratic gains.
“These opportunities will require unity, commitment and bipartisanship for us to be successful in our quest to enhance inter-generational equity. In the new decade, we are called upon to put aside partisan differences, ethnic and cultural blinkers, social and religious divides and live as One Nation and One People, bound by One Vision,” said President Kenyatta.
On building bridges, the Head of State said he will continue focusing on the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) with opposition leader Raila Odinga, assuring that the process will aid address both historical and emerging national challenges.
The BBI report that was released towards the end of last year has been the focus of national politics for months as it is expected to end in constitutional change, with the creation of a Prime Minister’s post one of its key talking points.
“It is my sincere hope and prayer that in the New Year all Kenyans will come together and rally around our shared aspirations for a better Kenya. On my part as your President, I will continue to foster an environment of unity, constructive political engagement, tolerance and the facilitation of participation by all Kenyans,” said Mr Kenyatta.
The President also commended the disciplined forces for keeping Kenyans safe through their dedicated work, at home and abroad.
“As I conclude, I would like to commend and highlight the dedicated service rendered by our valiant Kenya Defence Forces serving at home and abroad; the National Police Servicemen and women who maintain safety, law and order in our communities; the dedicated Men and Women of the Public Service; our Teachers, Doctors, Nurses and all other cadres of Kenyans who diligently serve our Country; and our Farmers, Businessmen, Athletes, Artisans, Artists and Clergy. I thank you and pray for God’s continued blessings and protection,” said the President.
