Leaders from the Mount Kenya region have stepped up efforts to rally support for the Government, citing ongoing and completed development projects as evidence of its commitment to improving the lives of Kenyans.
Led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, the leaders urged residents to maintain peace, cohesion and tolerance as political temperatures rise ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a UDA grassroots consultative meeting at Kirwara Boys in Gatanga Constituency, the leaders said the Government remained focused on implementing its election manifesto and fulfilling promises made to the electorate.
Ichung’wah said the Government had commissioned several development projects in the region, including affordable housing units and modern markets, while other projects were in the pipeline.
“The Government has commissioned numerous development projects in this region, including affordable housing units and modern markets worth billions of shillings, with more in the pipeline, all aimed at improving the lives of the common mwananchi,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to continue supporting the Government as it implements its development agenda.
Ichung’wah also criticised opposition leaders for what he described as premature campaigns and inflammatory remarks, saying political leaders should allow the Government to concentrate on delivering services before the official campaign period begins.
“We are focused on delivering development projects to wananchi. There is still time before the official campaign period, and we urge leaders to allow the Government to work,” he said.
The Majority Leader called for responsible political leadership, saying hate speech, incitement and divisive politics had no place in a democratic society.
He urged Kenyans to make informed decisions when voting and respect the constitutional right of individuals to form political parties within the law.
Murang’a County Woman Representative Betty Maina echoed the call for unity, urging leaders and members of the public to promote peaceful coexistence and national cohesion.
Maina said the Government should use the remaining period before the elections to deliver on its promises, particularly in healthcare, education and infrastructure.
“We are going to the ballot next year, but now it is time to deliver what we promised; to improve the lives of wananchi, ensure the healthcare system is seamless and serves all, ensure every Kenyan child has access to education and make our roads passable,” she said.
She urged voters to exercise their democratic rights responsibly by electing leaders who would prioritise development.
“Your vote can change your area. You will have the power to elect your leaders once more. Exercise that right wisely by voting for development-oriented leaders,” she said.
Maina also criticised opposition leaders for allegedly making inflammatory and divisive statements, urging politicians to avoid remarks that could incite the public.
Mathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi cautioned politicians against personal attacks and character assassination, saying political competition should be conducted with maturity and respect.
“We can promote our political ambitions without attacking others and dragging their personal lives into politics. Let us keep off people’s marriages and engage in mature politics that do not victimise others along gender lines. Respect is paramount,” he said.
Wamumbi further urged residents to support development programmes being implemented by the Government, saying major projects in the region would benefit communities and improve livelihoods.
By Florence Kinyua