Leaders put politics on the back burner to wish Kenyans merry Christmas

Politicians who have been squabbling for the better part of this year have put aside their differences to send Christmas goodwill messages to Kenyans.

Their message: Maintain peace, show compassion to the under privileged and maintain unity for a prosperous Kenya.

President Uhuru Kenyatta in his message to the nation asked Kenyans and fellow leaders to “put others before ourselves”, adding that reconciliation and unity should be the leading virtues this festive season.

“We ought to be ready to put others before ourselves. For our leaders, that means putting the needs of those they serve first. Self-centred leaders need to learn that lesson quickly,” said the Head of State in a statement to newsrooms.

“That spirit was shown in a particularly striking way by the Muslim Kenyans who stood with their Christian compatriots against attackers near Mandera a few days ago. This is the Kenyan spirit that we must uphold and honour,” added Mr Kenyatta.

The President was referring to an incident in which Muslim passengers refused to be separated from non-Muslims as instructed by the attackers after a bus they were travelling in was attacked on Monday morning in Mandera County.

The President also urged Kenyans to drive carefully during this festive period, adding: “We want everyone to be safe and each one of us has a duty to play”.

Deputy President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to unite, maintain peace and love each other to lay a strong foundation for a prosperous nation.

He stressed that citizens from all parts of the country must maintain good relations to secure peace and unity among all the Kenyan communities.

“As Kenyans, we should appreciate our country and celebrate our God-given blessings by regarding each other as brothers and sisters irrespective of our ethnic or political backgrounds,” said Mr Ruto.

The DP made the remarks Thursday at his Sugoi home when he hosted thousands of Sugoi residents and officials of 32 children’s homes in Uasin Gishu County where he gave them various foodstuffs.

Mr. Ruto who was flanked by his wife, Rachel Ruto and their children said Christmas gives Kenya an opportunity to reflect on the seamless integration of spiritual and human welfare.

Cord leader Raila Odinga and his wife Ida in their Christmas message wished both the President and his deputy and their families “a very merry Christmas and a happy new year” and asked Kenyans to pray for the country.

Amani Coalition leader Musalia Mudavadi said although Kenyans had faced a tough year they must remain resilient and be hopeful.