The political deal between President William Ruto and opposition chief Raila Odinga has attracted more support from community leaders in the Rift Valley region.
The Luo Council of Elders in Uasin Gishu led by chairman Mark Orinda, said they were happy that the two leaders, who had been in politics for long, decided to work together for the benefit of the country.
“We are sure the deal will help to quickly heal the country and unite all communities,” Orinda said.
Orinda said politics in the country should not be played out as enmity especially after elections.
He said all those involved are Kenyans and should work together thereafter.
Orinda spoke after a meeting of the community leaders in Eldoret who included Moses Ochieng, Andrew Sure and Joseph Ochieng.
Sure however said they want the same gesture of unity replicated in the counties.
He asked Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii to include the Luo community and other residents in his administration.
“Ruto and Raila have shown us that tribalism is unacceptable and we are asking Governor Bii to do the same by making his administration all inclusive,” Sure said.
They asked the governor to consider appointing two of their professionals who had been shortlisted for positions in the county administration.
Ochieng said they were more interested in peace and unity among all communities in Eldoret and other regions. He praised the inclusion of opposition leaders in government.
ACK Bishop of Eldoret Thomas Ruto said they fully support the unity among all leaders, adding that the government should focus on addressing issues raised by the youth.
“We welcome the new working relationship between our leaders but they should also work to deal with issues like corruption and other ills as raised by our youth,” Bishop Ruto said.
He said job opportunities should be created for the youth so that they also feel part of the government and the country.
The political deal has sparked excitement and support in the Rift Valley rekindling past memories when the two leaders worked together.
Political and community leaders who are allies of the two leaders in the region have praised the re-union saying it would help to stabilise the country, strengthen peace and unity.
Azimio politician Micah Kigen from Elgeyo Marakwet congratulated Raila for what he termed as the ‘magnanimity and wisdom’.
He said Raila has put the country first and reunited with the President in a timely effort to rescue the country from turbulence and looming disintegration.
Kigen urged Kenyans to put aside all differences, grievances and misgivings and whole heartedly support political reforms and economic transformation that will come as a result of the re-union.
“My plea goes to the youth who stand to benefit most if the Raila-Ruto re-union succeeds. To succeed, we need to support our leaders and participate actively,” Kigen said.
Bishop Ruto said the country needs stability to achieve development in a manner that will lead to creation of more job opportunities.