President William Ruto continued his campaign for national unity, advocating for the inclusion of key leaders from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in his government. Speaking after a service at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) St Peter’s Ngambwa in Mwatate, Taita Taveta County, he stressed the importance of uniting the country for the sake of development.

Ruto’s recent decision to appoint four ODM leaders to his administration has faced criticism, with some accusing him of trying to weaken the opposition. However, he framed this move as essential for fostering national development, stating, “Events in our country have given us the opportunity to build a new Kenya.” He urged all Kenyans to seize this moment of unity and collaboration, emphasizing that the current season is ideal for such efforts.

Advocating for a Unified Approach to Development

President Ruto highlighted the benefits of a united front in advancing the national development agenda. He expressed confidence that support from opposition members would strengthen his administration’s ability to address the country’s challenges, including planning development and managing the national debt. “This is why I have formed a Cabinet that will bring the entire nation together so we can face our challenges together,” he explained.

The proposed cabinet includes prominent ODM figures: John Mbadi as Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury, Opiyo Wandayi for Energy and Petroleum, Hassan Joho for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs, and Wycliffe Oparanya for the Ministry of Co-operatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development.

Mombasa Celebrates Joho’s Cabinet Appointment

The announcement of Hassan Joho’s appointment to the cabinet sparked celebrations in Mombasa. Thousands of Joho supporters thronged the port city, celebrating the former governor’s new role. The festivities, characterized by energetic dances and a carnival-like atmosphere, were notably led by the younger generation, marking a shift from recent antigovernment protests.

The celebrations started at Treasury Square and expanded as people joined from various parts of the city, including Changamwe, Kisauni, Jomvu, Nyali, and Likoni. Despite a month of fervent protests against the government, President Ruto was welcomed warmly by the residents of the Coast during his tour, indicating a hopeful turn towards national unity and cooperation.