Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has spoken out against unnamed government officials whom he accuses of promoting tribalism in public appointments and employment. He made these remarks during the handover of the Jubilee Party leadership at the party's offices. Uhuru emphasized that public officials should serve all citizens equally, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. He questioned the basis for favoring members of one's own ethnic community in appointments, arguing that this approach would divide Kenyans.
Uhuru expressed concern that such politics would undermine the country's unity, citing Nairobi as an example of a diverse city that functions because of its multi-ethnic population. He asked rhetorically whether Nairobi could survive without people from different ethnic communities, such as Kambas, Luos, Kisiis, Kalenjins, and Somalis. Uhuru's comments come amid renewed debate over ethnic representation in government and public appointments as political parties prepare for the 2027 General Election.
The retired president appeared to refer to comments allegedly made by an unnamed government official advising Cabinet secretaries and principal secretaries to employ people from their respective communities. Uhuru questioned the logic behind such advice, arguing that Cabinet secretaries and principal secretaries are appointed to serve the entire country, not just particular communities. He emphasized that public officials should use their positions to serve all citizens equally.
Uhuru's remarks have been linked to his support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i's presidential ambitions. He had earlier endorsed Matiang'i as Jubilee Party's preferred presidential candidate, saying the former Interior CS should also seek to unite leaders from different political formations. Uhuru maintained that he would continue speaking out on issues affecting the country despite criticism directed at him.
The former president urged leaders to avoid exploiting ethnic differences for political or administrative purposes, saying Kenya's diversity should be viewed as a strength. He also urged political leaders to focus on issues that improve the lives of Kenyans and bring communities together. Uhuru's call for inclusive leadership comes as politicians begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Uhuru's comments have sparked a renewed debate on the importance of inclusivity in government appointments. His stance has been seen as a call for leaders to prioritize the needs of all Kenyans, regardless of their ethnic backgrounds. The retired president's endorsement of Fred Matiang'i has also been seen as a strategic move to promote unity among leaders from different political formations.
Uhuru concluded by stating that he would continue to speak out on issues affecting the country, despite criticism. He urged Kenyans to work together to build a more inclusive and equitable society. The debate on tribalism in government appointments is expected to continue in the lead-up to the 2027 General Election.
Key points
- Uhuru Kenyatta condemns alleged tribalism in State jobs
- Retired President urges leaders to focus on issues that unite Kenyans
- Uhuru endorses Fred Matiang'i's presidential ambitions
