Show of unity: How beatification brought together bickering leaders

The beatification ceremony of Sister Irene Stefani ‘Nyaatha’ did not only unite Christians from across the world, but also provided a rare reconciliatory platform for local political leaders, previously hostile to each other.

Last Saturday, the leaders, led by Governor Nderitu Gachagua, buried their political differences and presented a unified front before President Uhuru Kenyatta, his Deputy William Ruto and the world.

Besides Gachagua, the other local leaders included Senator Mutahi Kagwe and several MPs led by Nyeri town’s Esther Murugi, area MP Priscilla Nyokabi, Ndung’u Gethenji (Tetu), Kabando wa Kabando (Mukurwe-ini), Mary Wambui (Othaya), Mathira’s Peter Weru and several Members of County Assembly (MCAs), including Speaker Mwangi Mugo.

Positive criticism

Speaking in Nyeri town, Gachagua was the first to extend an olive branch to his colleagues, asking them to work as a team to foster development and address challenges facing residents.

Murugi called on the leaders to keep up the spirit of togetherness so as to ‘give the best to the people’. She also pointed out that all leaders ought to accept positive criticism. Her sentiments were echoed by Kega, who said their unity was not a choice but a necessity.

“The disunity displayed for the last two years has paralysed our development agenda,” he observed.

The Kieni MP said they have been holding meetings to pursue ways of working together as a team to foster growth.

“The beatification was just a catalyst that brought us together. We had previously held four meetings, although in the absence of the Governor who was at the time undergoing treatment in the United Kingdom,” Kega said.

He said they will still offer positive criticism when necessary in cases where the executive fails to discharge its mandate properly.

As the beatification preparations rolled out, the leaders came together in welcoming development proposals from the national government. For instance, the installations of high mast flood lights and the gravelling of 39.4 kilometres of road in Gikondi village.

It is not yet clear whether the unity demonstrated during the ceremony will continue or if it was merely a public gimmick.