President William Ruto speaking on June 14, 2026 / PCSPresident William Ruto has cautioned political leaders against engaging in divisive rhetoric, warning that politics rooted in hatred, gossip, and tribalism poses a threat to national unity.
The President said Kenyans should reject leaders who seek to divide citizens along ethnic or regional lines.
He warned that such narratives risk undermining national cohesion and development, insisting that leaders should instead be held accountable for their ideas and development agenda.
“I hear some people talking politics that is full of hatred, gossip, and tribalism. You hear someone saying that some people have shares and others do not have shares, some are from the coast, others from town, that others are cousins, others are not,” Ruto said.
“That language will destroy our country. There is no need to divide people. Tell us your agenda and plans.”
He spoke on Sunday during a service at Nkarusha Seventh Day Adventist Church in Kajiado County.
The President urged politicians to focus on presenting clear policies and solutions to the challenges facing citizens, rather than resorting to identity-based politics.
Ruto reiterated the need for unity and mutual respect among Kenyans, saying the country’s progress depends on leaders who prioritize development over division.
Ruto defended his demanding work schedule, dismissing suggestions that he should take a break and insisting that Kenya cannot afford to slow down in its pursuit of development.
The President said his calendar is already booked six months ahead as he remains focused on driving the country's transformation agenda.
Ruto said Kenya must accelerate its development if it is to catch up with countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, and South Korea, which were at a similar level of development decades ago but have since surged ahead.
The President noted that Kenya had lost valuable time while other nations remained focused on economic growth and development.
“Don't be worried about me. Some people are saying that I should have gone on holiday. If you want to go on holiday, you can go, it is okay. I have work to do; my diary is full six months ahead,” he said.
“But it is because the country needs hard work, we are even late. There are countries that were at the same level as us 60 years ago, including Singapore, Malaysia and Korea, but now they have left us behind because we have lost focus. We must accelerate our development and work an extra mile to ensure that Kenya reaches their level and even surpasses them."
Ruto said his administration is making steady progress and attributed the gains to God's favour and the commitment to implement development projects across the country.
