National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula with other Kenya Kwanza leaders in Narok on July 25, 2026/COURTESY
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has urged political leaders to shun tribal politics and promote national cohesion, warning that divisive rhetoric threatens Kenya's unity and risks reversing gains made in fostering peaceful coexistence.
Wetang'ula said political competition should never be used to sow ethnic hatred or incite violence.
"Anybody who is talking tribalism is primitive. We can disagree politically, but that doesn't mean we begin insulting and injuring one another. Politics should always be a fair game," he said.
Speaking Saturday during a fundraiser for the Olerai Women Community-Based Organisation in Oloiborsoito, Kilgoris Constituency, Narok County, the Speaker cautioned leaders against making inflammatory remarks capable of fuelling tensions, especially as political activity gathers momentum ahead of the 2027 General Election.
"Politics must never become a justification for violence or the loss of innocent lives. Our young people are the future of this nation, and they must never be used as instruments in political disagreements," he said.
Without mentioning any leader directly, Wetang'ula said Kenya's diversity should be a source of strength rather than division, calling on politicians to embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect.
He stressed that every Kenyan has the right to participate in national leadership regardless of their ethnic background, saying leaders should focus on development rather than identity politics.
The Speaker also highlighted the importance of empowering women and youth economically, saying sustainable development depends on expanding opportunities for vulnerable groups.
"Empowering women with skills, knowledge and opportunities remains one of the most effective ways to transform lives, strengthen families and achieve sustainable development because women remain the cornerstone of our families and communities," he said.
He said the Olerai Women Community-Based Organisation was playing an important role in supporting women and young people to participate in income-generating activities and improve household livelihoods.
Wetang'ula further praised the Maasai community for preserving its rich cultural heritage, describing it as one of Kenya's greatest tourism assets.
"Every year, thousands of visitors come to experience the unique Maasai culture, demonstrating that preserving our heritage also contributes significantly to tourism and national development," he said.
He cautioned leaders against making statements that could undermine the country's tourism sector, noting that Kenya's image as a peaceful destination remains critical to attracting visitors and investment.
The Speaker also called for stronger legal protections for artisanal miners, saying the mining sector has the potential to transform livelihoods if supported through appropriate legislation and government investment.
"We need laws that will protect miners across the country. The Government will continue supporting gold miners in Trans Mara so they can fully benefit from the country's natural resources," he said.
Wetang'ula commended President William Ruto's administration for implementing development projects across the country, citing investments in roads, education, healthcare and subsidised agricultural inputs as evidence of the government's commitment to equitable development.
President Ruto's aide Farouk Kibet also addressed the gathering, urging residents of Kilgoris to continue living harmoniously despite political differences.
He described Kilgoris as a cosmopolitan town where every Kenyan has the right to live, work and invest without fear of discrimination.
Farouk pledged continued support for development projects championed by Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli, who hosted the fundraising event.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot echoed Wetang'ula's call for national unity, urging leaders to avoid statements that could fuel ethnic divisions and calling on security agencies to act against individuals who incite violence.
Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi said leadership opportunities should remain open to all Kenyans regardless of ethnicity and urged politicians to prioritise policies that promote economic growth and national cohesion.
Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed appealed to Kenyans to support the broad-based government, while Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse defended the administration's development record, pointing to the recruitment of teachers, construction of classrooms and ongoing economic reforms as evidence of progress.
