Uhuru Calls on Leaders to Protect Democratic Freedoms and Respect Political Diversity
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged Kenya's political leaders to protect democratic freedoms and respect divergent political views, warning against efforts that could undermine citizens' constitutional rights.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged Kenya’s political leaders to protect democratic freedoms and respect divergent political views, warning against efforts that could undermine citizens’ constitutional rights.
Speaking in Kitale during a ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the death of former Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa, Uhuru said Kenyans must be allowed to freely choose the leaders they want without political interference.
The former President said the democratic freedoms enjoyed in the country were achieved through years of sacrifice by leaders who fought for political rights and greater public participation.
He cautioned against any attempts to restrict political competition, saying such actions could undermine the progress made in strengthening Kenya’s democracy.
Uhuru stressed that political differences should not turn opponents into enemies, arguing that leaders should be able to compete while maintaining respect for one another.
Uhuru praised Wamalwa as a statesman who demonstrated integrity, maturity and tolerance throughout his political career. He recalled that Wamalwa viewed political opponents as competitors rather than enemies.
The former President also participated in the launch of My Country First, a book documenting Wamalwa’s public life and contribution to Kenya’s political history. Uhuru contributed the foreword to the publication.
The event brought together politicians from different political formations, including former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, former Attorney General Justin Muturi, former Cabinet Minister Charity Ngilu and former Justice Minister Martha Karua.
Uhuru’s message comes at a time when political competition is intensifying ahead of the 2027 General Election, with parties and political leaders positioning themselves for the contest.
He called for the preservation of Kenya’s democratic values, urging leaders to ensure that citizens retain the freedom to participate in politics, support candidates of their choice and express differing political opinions.
