Leaders share messages of Christmas cheer

President William Ruto shares a joyful moment with the children of State House staff as they celebrate their Christmas. [PCS]

President William Ruto led other leaders in wishing Kenyans a merry Christmas.

Ruto and First Lady Rachael Ruto in a joint message reflected on the transformative nature of Christmas.

“Once again, the time has come for us to gather as families, communities, and as a nation to commemorate a singular event, the birth of the world’s most transformative individual, Jesus Christ,” the message said.

They draw attention to the humble background chosen by Almighty God for the birth of Jesus, emphasising that humble beginnings are the starting point for better and greater things. They encouraged Kenyans to reach out to those in need with love, kindness, warm meals, and gifts, with acts of loving goodwill.

“Together, let us look forward to a new year filled with hope, progress and shared prosperity. Season’s greetings and may the coming year bring you peace, joy and fulfillment. Merry Christmas and a happy new year 2024,” the President said.

At the same time, former President Uhuru Kenyatta emphasised values of compassion, sharing, and communion.

“Once again Christmas is here; a time to remember and apply our shared values of compassion, sharing, and communion. We share this holiday with all people of all persuasions because what we celebrate are cherished universal human impulses,” President Kenyatta said.

Uhuru called for unity across all persuasions, hoping that the holiday spirit will bring people closer together, lighten burdens, and brighten collective journeys into the New Year.

Kanu party National Chairperson Gideon Moi called on Kenyans to extend a helping hand to those in need.

In his message, Gideon urged Kenyans to embrace the spirit of unity and hope during this season.

“In the spirit of Christmas, let’s extend a helping hand to those in need, fostering a culture of compassion and solidarity,” he stated.

He appealed to Kenyans to take time to reflect on the values that unite them and the shared vision of a prosperous and harmonious nation.

“May this festive occasion remind us of the strength that lies within our diversity. As the National Chairman of Kanu and on behalf of the Kanu fraternity, I extend heartfelt wishes for a peaceful and joy-filled Christmas to every member of our great Nation,” he stated.

He said the lessons learned and the bonds strengthened during the festive season should guide Kenyans toward a future of progress and prosperity.

“Together, let us build a Kenya where every individual contributes to the collective well-being and where the flame of unity burns brightly,” said Gideon.

Chief Justice, Martha Koome, in her Christmas message, advocated for people-centered justice.

Koome envisions a Kenyan society where compassion and equality prevail, especially for the vulnerable and marginalised.

“May fair and kindness illuminate our paths, guiding us to create a Kenyan society where compassion and equality prevail, especially for the vulnerable and marginalised,” she said.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi extended warm wishes to all Kenyans emphasising the joy of coming together during Christmas.

“This is a moment of great joy when we come together again to celebrate Christmas, this is a moment when we remember and comfort those who are not in a position to enjoy a Christmas that will be best preferred for them. Let us take this opportunity to remember them and to put them in prayer,” Mudavadi said.

In his message, the Speaker of the Senate, Amason Kingi, invoked the love of Christ during the Christmas season and extending warm wishes to all.

“May the love of Christ be manifest in us, as we commemorate and celebrate His divine birth. Merry Christmas!” Kingi said.

Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha emphasised making healthy choices during celebrations, encouraging the public to opt for nutritious meals and engage in physical activities.

Anne Waiguru, Chair of the Council of Governors, wished Kenyans a festive season filled with peace, laughter, and goodwill.

“May this festive season bring you moments of peace, laughter, and goodwill. Happy Holidays!” Waiguru said.

Governor Fernandes Barasa (Kakamega), Johnson Sakaja (Nairobi) and Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu) were among other governors that wished the electorate a merry Christmas and called for renewed hope in the coming year.

“I extend warm Christmas wishes to the people of Kakamega County, fellow Kenyans, and Christian faithful around the world. May this Christmas bring you joy, peace, cherished moments, and a renewed sense of hope,” said Barasa.