Leaders say current divisions could hamper development as they urge Uhuru to focus on Unity

Pall bearers carry the casket with the remains of Veronicah Muthoni on Saturday. She was one of the victims of the chopper that crashed in Lake Nakuru recently. (Photo:Harun Wathari|Standard]

Leaders in Nakuru County have asked President-elect Uhuru Kenyatta to prioritise reconciliation when he assumes office tomorrow.

The leaders said although elections were concluded peacefully, the country seemed to be divided along political and tribal lines and that was not healthy for implementation of his development agenda.

Governor Lee Kinyanjui said Kenya was a peaceful country and the top leaders should not allow a few politicians with their personal interests to cause divisions.

“Even if we do not agree politically, we are all Kenyans that is why we urge the President and his deputy to consider reconciliation after the swearing-in ceremony,” said Mr Kinyanjui.

Speaking at the weekend during the burial of one of the victims who perished in a helicopter crash at Lake Nakuru, Kinyanjui said it was not possible to lead a divided nation.

He said four counties that did not participate in October 26 elections including Homa Bay, Kisumu, Siaya and Migori should also not be sidelined by the presidency because they are part of Kenya.

The governor regretted that Opposition leaders led by Raila Odinga continued to divide the country.

Senator Susan Kihika asked Nakuru residents to remain calm despite high political temperatures reported in the country.

Also present was Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri, who maintained dialogue should only be engaged after the swearing-in ceremony.

The MP further took an issue with the clergy, saying they had failed to advise political leaders.

Meanwhile, religious leaders have cautioned the Jubilee administration against ignoring Raila.

“We ask President Uhuru Kenyatta to open dialogue with the Opposition after he is sworn in as president. The president should not underestimate the opposition leader Raila Odinga,” said Orthodox priest Fr Evangelos Thiani.

The prelate condemned the recent brutal killing of the National Super Alliance (NASA) supporters in Nairobi.

He said the police should uphold respect for human rights and democracy and desist from using excessive force on citizens.

He said the political polarisation about to be witnessed in the country could split the country.

Speaking at Tangaza College in Nairobi yesterday during an international conference, Fr Thiani said Parliament should amend the Constitution to create a slot for a strong Opposition in Parliament to check the Government.

Catholic priest Fr Innocent Magaya called on leaders to embark on political dialogue to defuse ethnic tension across the country.