Ruto Dodges UDA Rift at National Prayer Breakfast
President William Ruto avoided addressing the growing divide within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) during the National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, where he appeared alongside Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who is at the heart of the controversy.
This event marked the first public appearance of both leaders since President Ruto’s recent state visit to the United States.
Gachagua lightened the mood by joking about the President’s actions abroad, saying, “All Kenyans were watching you. What you did there caused many husbands trouble. Our spouses, led by mine, demanded that we emulate the President and hold their hands wherever we go.”
The Deputy President’s remarks helped ease the tension at the prayer meeting, which took place amid reports of discord within UDA. Both leaders avoided discussing the party’s internal conflicts, with the President focusing on unity.
UDA’s internal rift involves two factions: one supporting the Deputy President and another opposing him, which Gachagua attributes to young Rift Valley politicians aligned with the President.
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National Assembly Minority Whip Sylvanus Osoro downplayed the conflict, stating, “It’s just a difference of opinion within the ruling coalition, as seen with Hon. Malala and others. This is the beauty of our democracy in UDA, and it ended there.”
Osoro added, “There is no disunity in the coalition. Our constitution requires us to accept constructive criticism.”
UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala echoed these views, saying the recent exchanges are a sign of democracy.
The theme of this year’s interdenominational prayer meeting was hope. President Ruto emphasized the importance of prayer in achieving national goals and called for leaders to work together to address the country’s challenges.
“We are still dealing with national debt and economic recovery. As leaders in Kenya, we understand the challenges and what needs to be done. Let us have the courage to do the right thing, no matter how difficult,” Ruto said.
Ruto Dodges UDA Rift at National Prayer Breakfast