Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has commended Monday’s meeting between President William Ruto and his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta.
In a statement after the meeting, Kindiki said the reconciliation between the two leaders is good for the country’s development.
He added that with national unity and the stability that comes with it, the country can now focus on addressing key priorities.
“Rapprochement between President William Ruto and former President Uhuru Kenyatta works well for national unity, stability and enables the country to collectively focus on addressing national development priorities,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President’s remarks come after Ruto paid a visit to Uhuru at his Ichaweri residence in Gatundu.
It is also the first time the two have held a private meeting. They have met a few times during public engagements.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed matters of national and regional importance and underscored the importance of cultivating a nationalistic, patriotic, and harmonious working relationship among all Kenyans and stakeholders.
"President Ruto took the opportunity to reiterate his appreciation and commendation of His Excellency President Kenyatta’s statesmanship in overseeing the peaceful transfer of power after the 2022 elections, as well as the goodwill the former president has continued to demonstrate toward his fellow leaders and his support for Kenya’s ongoing progress and development," State House said in a statement.
Also discussed was the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which has been delayed by a court injunction over the constitution of the selection panel.
State House said the two leaders called for prompt resolution of the court matters to facilitate the appointment of commissioners.
On Kenya's candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship, Ruto and Uhuru called on Kenyans, friends of Kenya, and the international partners to support Raila Odinga for the position as the February 2025 election date fast approaches.
On regional matters, the leaders acknowledged Kenya’s leading role in promoting peace and security in the East African region through diplomatic and peace support initiatives, which are crucial to resolving conflicts, restoring peace, and fostering regional stability.
Uhuru is the AU-Kenya Peace Envoy and Facilitator of the EAC-Led Nairobi Peace Process.
