Dialogue with those in opposition to their victory is not a weakness- Uhuru sends a message to Ruto.
Speaking through a lecture titled Deepening Democracy for Development and Integration,” at the 2023 Presidential Inauguration Lecture held at the International Conference Center in Abuja, Former President Uhuru Kenyatta advised President Ruto to give opposition a chance to dialogue.
Uhuru opined that anyone who is in power, should never neglect the input of the opposition regardless because it interferes with the state development.
He stated,”I remain alive to the fact that I must continue to play a part in fostering peace in my own country of Kenya. I use my voice and platform to persuade, especially those in power, that dialogue with those in opposition to their victory is not a weakness nor is it a denial of their victory but rather a much-needed tool for creating a more inclusive Kenya that sets a forward development trajectory.
“A trajectory that meets the needs of all in our society. And I remind you that the mentality of winner takes it all can only result in division and retardation of our national developmental agenda,” he added.
The former head of state further stressed of the importance of equity and not sidelining others in terms of ethnicity or religion.
He stated,”I encourage you to surround yourself with the voices of those who will counterbalance the hardliners that feel entitled to a piece of your office. You will lose nothing and gain everything by reaching out across the political, ethnic and religious lines.”
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