National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has urged political leaders to reject tribal politics and embrace national unity, warning that ethnic divisions and inflammatory rhetoric threaten Kenya's peace and development.
Speaking on Saturday during a fundraiser for the Olerai Women Community Based Organization in Oloiborsoito, Kilgoris Constituency, Narok County, Wetang'ula said political competition should never be used to incite hatred, violence or ethnic animosity.
"Anybody who is talking tribalism is primitive. We can disagree politically, but that doesn't mean we begin insulting and injuring one another. Politics should always be a fair game," he said.
The Speaker cautioned politicians against making statements that could incite violence, particularly among young people, saying leaders have a duty to safeguard peace and national cohesion.
"Politics must never become a justification for violence or the loss of innocent lives. Our young people are the future of this nation, and they must never be used as shields or instruments in political disagreements," he said.
Wetang'ula said Kenya's diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than division, urging leaders to foster dialogue, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
"Our diversity is our strength, and we must continue working together to build a peaceful, prosperous and economically strong Kenya under the leadership of President William Ruto," he said.
The Speaker made the remarks during a fundraising event hosted by Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli to support the Olerai Women Community Based Organization, which seeks to expand economic opportunities for women and young people.
He said empowering women through skills development and economic opportunities remains one of the most effective ways of improving livelihoods and strengthening communities.
"Empowering women with skills, knowledge and opportunities remains one of the most effective ways to transform lives, strengthen families and achieve sustainable development in our country, as women remain the cornerstone of our families and communities," he said.
Wetang'ula also lauded the Maasai community for preserving its rich cultural heritage, describing it as one of Kenya's greatest tourism assets.
"Every year, thousands of visitors are drawn to this region to experience its unique traditions, proving that preserving our cultural heritage also contributes significantly to tourism and national development," he said.
The Speaker criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of making remarks that could undermine Kenya's tourism sector.
On mining, Wetang'ula called for stronger laws to protect artisanal miners, saying the industry has significant potential to improve livelihoods if properly regulated.
"We need laws that will protect miners across the country. The Government will continue supporting gold miners in Trans Mara as a way of empowering the community and ensuring they benefit fully from the country's natural resources," he said.
He also praised President Ruto's administration for implementing development projects across the country, citing investments in roads, education, healthcare and subsidised farm inputs.
President Ruto's aide Farouk Kibet urged residents of Kilgoris to continue living harmoniously, saying the town has grown into a cosmopolitan centre where every Kenyan has the right to live, work and invest.
He also pledged continued support for MP Julius Sunkuli's infrastructure development agenda.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot echoed Wetang'ula's call against tribal politics, accusing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of promoting division and hatred.
He urged the Interior Ministry and security agencies to take firm action against leaders whose remarks threaten national cohesion.
Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi called for issue-based politics, saying leadership opportunities should be open to all Kenyans regardless of ethnicity.
He urged politicians to focus on policies that promote economic growth, social progress and national unity.
Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohamed appealed to Kenyans to support the Broad-Based Government, while Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse defended President Ruto's administration, citing the recruitment of teachers, construction of classrooms and ongoing economic reforms.
She challenged government critics to offer practical alternatives instead of relying on political rhetoric.