- Politicians have their space, they can say what they say but I want to see a united Kenya.
- I must rise above local, divisive conversations.
Image: EZEKIEL AMING'A
Cabinet Secretary nominee for Mining Hassan Joho has responded to his earlier remarks that he would not engage President William Ruto.
Speaking when he appeared before the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Joho said that while he has been a critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, now he has an opportunity to bring the change he has always called for.
He also explained that his nomination is a clarion call to serve the country.
At one point, when the question was asked for the first time, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula who chairs the vetting committee intervened and stopped him from answering the question.
Lesuuda however pressed on that Joho had to answer.
"During your preamble, you thanked His Excellency the President for nominating you, that is why you are here before this committee. You are in public for having said "I don't ever dream of engaging with Ruto, mimi niongee na Ruto niongee na Ruto nini?" she posed.
The former Mombasa governor in his response to the question said that only a fool does not change his mind.
"Only a fool does not change his mind. I have been a big critic of this government. Now I have an opportunity to create a difference. I will do exactly that," Joho said.
Joho also committed to rising above local politics and assisting President William Ruto in uniting the country.
He told the MPs that if approved he would focus on his mandate of serving the nation and shun politics.
“I will make efforts to unite even those in Mombasa, I must help the president unite the country,” he said.
“I must rise above local, divisive conversations. Every Kenyan must be served equally so if there is anything I would do is endeavor to unite Kenyans even leaders…be rest assured, politicians have their space, they can say what they say but I want to see a united Kenya,” he added.