By Faith Mukundi
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has warned leaders in the Mt Kenya region against propagating politics of hatred and division, urging them to prioritise peace, unity and development ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Kiambaa Constituency during his development tour of Kiambu County, Kindiki said the region should not be allowed to slide into divisive politics at a time when residents were expecting leaders to deliver development.
He called on leaders engaging in political mobilisation to avoid using rhetoric that could create hatred and divisions among communities, saying political competition should not undermine peace.
“We need peace and unity and stop hatred politics across the region. Just come, do your peace politics and go home,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President said he was ready to work with elders and other leaders from across Mt Kenya in efforts to promote peace and unity, arguing that the region’s progress depended on its ability to remain united.
Kindiki also said he would not be dragged into political exchanges with leaders who have been attacking or abusing him, maintaining that he had chosen to forgive them.
He recalled that during his coronation by Mt Kenya elders, he was given the responsibility of promoting peace and unity in the region, a commitment he said he intended to honour.
“I was asked to promote peace and unity,” Kindiki said.
His remarks come against the backdrop of increasing political activity in Mt Kenya, where leaders and political groups are positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections. The region is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome of the next presidential contest.
Kindiki also vowed to intensify the government’s fight against illicit alcohol in the region, saying the administration would continue protecting families and young people from the effects of illegal brews.
Kiambaa MP Njuguna Wanjiku said he would continue working with the government to promote development in the constituency, arguing that the area had benefited from significant government investment.
“We are doing development and not politics. Politics will come and go but development will remain,” Njuguna said.
He urged residents to avoid being distracted by early 2027 politics and instead focus on development.
“Let us focus on development and stop succession politics. We are keen on working for our people,” he said.
Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a said Kiambu leaders had agreed to work together and avoid what she termed “funny politics” as they pursue development projects across the county.
She said leaders were ready to support government programmes and ensure residents benefit from ongoing projects.
Lari MP Mburu Kahangara also urged residents to support development initiatives, saying leaders should remain focused on improving the lives of their constituents rather than engaging in divisive politics.