Clergy asks Ruto to forgive his political enemies
Members of the clergy in Trans Nzoia County have called on President-elect William Ruto to strive to unite the country as he assumes office next week.
The clergy pleaded with Ruto to forgive all the people, who allegedly schemed evil against him and pushed him out of Jubilee’s government after the famous March 9, 2018 handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking to People Daily Digital, Silas Yego, the retired bishop of the African Inland Church (AIC), asked Ruto to embrace all leaders including those who did not support his presidential bid.
“We are all aware of the tribulations you went through, you were mocked, ridiculed, given all sorts of names and even your juniors in government sabotaged you. That notwithstanding, you are now the president of the Republic of Kenya, you should forgive and forget and unite the country because you are now a symbol of national unity,” Yego appealed.
Yego also asked Uhuru to hand over power peacefully to his successor.
“I am also requesting President Uhuru Kenyatta, my good friend, please Kenyans want to see a peaceful transition and for sure they will remember you for that. We know you have done a lot of things for our country but power is temporary,” he said.
He also challenged Azimio la Umoja - One Kenya coalition leader Raila Odinga to accept and respect the verdict of the Supreme Court judges, who upheld Ruto’s election as the fifth President of Kenya.
“Baba Raila Odinga, you did your best but Kenyans voted for your opponent. As a statesman, kindly accept the Supreme Court verdict. Remember, there is always next time and even if you don’t become the President of Kenya, someone from your generation is likely to be,” he added.
Speaking separately to the media in Kitale, Ecumenical Catholic Church of Christ Bishop Godfrey Siundu asked Ruto to unite all Kenyans.
“While we congratulate you for your well-deserved victory, we ask you to consider uniting the country. You are not the President of UDA or Kenya Kwanza but you are the president of the Republic of Kenya, you are the President of those who voted for you and those who voted otherwise,” Siundu stated.
He also challenged the President-elect to deliver on his manifesto.
“My friend, Dr. William Ruto, the majority of Kenyans voted for you because you convinced them in your manifesto. Their expectations are very high, please don’t fail them, honour your promises,” he appealed.
The President-elect and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua will take the oath of office on Tuesday, September 13, 2022.
