Criticise government without insults – DP

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called on critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration to do it without insults.

According to Kindiki, Kenya is a democratic state and no one has an issue with anyone making known their views, even though they might differ from those of the government.

He went on to say that while this is the case, it does not mean that criticism should have insults.

He insisted that this can be done respectfully.

The Deputy President reiterated that criticizing leaders with insults does no good to the country. It instead destroys the country’s good reputation, he said.

“Those who are critics of the government, we know that our country is a democracy and there is no problem for a citizen to have a different opinion from the government, but it does not mean that you have to express your opinion with insults and in bad language because if you do that, you destroy the dignity and honour of our nation of Kenya… Criticise with respect. Tupelekane pole pole. It doesn’t help to abuse leaders,” Kindiki said.

He further called on Kenyans to remain united at all times, regardless of which region or tribe they belong to.

He also called for respect for each other, adding that it is the only way to have a good country for all.

“I am asking my colleagues and citizens of the Republic of Kenya so that our country continues to move forward and respect each other. Even those who express different opinions should express them with respect. Honour is not slavery; let's be honourable people. Insults are not democracy. The time for the vote will come," he said.

“We must respect each other. The leaders must respect the people; the people must respect other people and leaders, older people must respect the youth and the youth must respect older people that is the only way of having a good country.”

The DP spoke as he witnessed the issuance of title deeds in Eldoro Taveta, Taita Taveta County, on Tuesday.

His remarks came a few days after President William Ruto urged Kenyans to ignore naysayers, insisting that the country is on a steady recovery trajectory.

Speaking on Sunday, Ruto said some people wish the country bad but he is certain Kenya will not fall.

He added that citizens must ignore the critics, as they do not have a vision of where the country is headed.

Ruto said the transformation of the country is not about him or whoever will come in as the next leader of the country.

He insisted that it is about the collective well-being of the country and all people.