ELDORET, KENYA: Deputy President William Ruto has warned leaders inciting their communities to violence to gain cheap publicity that the law will deal with them without bias on their status.

Mr. Ruto warned politicians against issuing statements aimed at creating hatred and animosity among Kenya’s different ethnic communities saying they should instead preach peace and inter-communal harmony in the country.

The Deputy President said it is the responsibility of leaders to preach peace and harmonious relations among Kenyans for the sake of peace and stability.

“All of us are elected to unite and work for Kenyans irrespective of ethnic or political affiliations,” said Mr. Ruto.

He said the Government will not hesitate to take stern action against leaders undermining peace efforts and national security.

Mr. Ruto said never again should the country witness what happened in 2007/8 post election violence, saying it is the constitutional right of all Kenyans to live and own property in any part of the country without any fear.

“We are all free to live and own property in any part of this country. I want to tell you in this broad daylight that never again will we allow politicians to divide Kenyans on ethnic or political backgrounds. We will not,” said Mr. Ruto.

The Deputy President made the remarks during a Sunday Service sermon held at St. Arnesens High School, Ainabkoi Constituency in Uasin-Gishu County. The sermon was led by Archbishop Africa Independent Pentecostal Churches of Africa (AIPCA) Kenya, Amos Kabuthu.

Noting that peace was paramount for development, the Deputy President said leaders should be responsible for what they say to avoid utterances which could divide Kenyans on ethnic backgrounds.

“Let us speak the way we want but we should be responsible for what we say. We must be careful so as not to engage in activities which negate the unity of our country,” said Mr. Ruto.

The Deputy President said politicians or Kenyans in general have freedom of expression but warned that the Government will not allow those bent on inciting Kenyans to engage in violence.

He asked the media to exercise responsible journalism so as not to incite Kenyans against their leaders.