By Erestinah Jane
July 6, 2026
President William Ruto has renewed his call for national unity, declaring that his administration will not tolerate tribal politics or leaders who seek to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines for political gain.
Speaking during a church service at Full Gospel Church Gatunduri in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County, the President said Kenya’s progress depends on unity and issue-based politics rather than ethnic mobilization.
“I will not allow tribal politics to thrive in Kenya. No one will be allowed to divide Kenyans on a tribal basis,” Ruto said.
The Head of State stressed that his government remains committed to working with leaders from across the political divide in the interest of national development, while warning against hate speech, insults and divisive political rhetoric.
“We will continue to collaborate, but I will stand firm. I will not allow divisive politics on tribal lines, insults and hate. It will not happen. Nobody will be allowed to divide the country on tribal lines,” he said.
Ruto argued that tribal politics has historically undermined the country’s social cohesion and slowed economic development, urging political leaders to embrace a message of unity instead of exploiting ethnic differences for electoral advantage.
“Tribalism divides us and weakens us. Those using abuse to divide Kenyans are stupid without brains. This cannot move any country,” the President said.
He further challenged Kenyans to scrutinize leaders seeking elective office based on their policies, integrity and development agenda rather than political slogans or emotional appeals.
“I am urging you that whoever is looking for a leadership position should be vetted. He should not just come with rhetoric. We want to know their plans,” Ruto said.
The President urged citizens to look beyond ethnic affiliations when making political choices, emphasizing that leadership should be judged by tangible results and the ability to improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
His remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, with both the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and opposition formations stepping up grassroots engagements across the country.
In recent weeks, leaders from different political camps have traded accusations over tribal politics and regional mobilization as they seek to consolidate support in key voting blocs.
Ruto has consistently defended his broad-based approach to governance, arguing that national development can only be achieved through inclusive leadership that brings together all regions regardless of political affiliation.
The President reiterated that his administration will continue prioritizing development projects, economic transformation and service delivery while resisting attempts to drag the country back into divisive ethnic politics.
He called on Kenyans to safeguard national unity by rejecting leaders who rely on tribal narratives and instead support those offering practical solutions to the country’s economic and social challenges.
