President William Ruto has revealed the reasons behind his decision to reach out to his long-time political rival Gideon Moi, describing it as a bold step toward national unity with KANU joining the broad-based government.
Speaking during his visit to Moi’s Kabarak home on Friday, Ruto explained that the move was part of efforts to unite the country and advance the vision of Kenya’s founding leaders.
Ruto clarified that his engagement with Moi was driven by the need to unite the nation and prioritise development in key sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He added that one of the key outcomes of their discussions was an agreement for KANU to join the broad-based government, marking the party’s return to national governance after years in the opposition.
"I reached out to my brother so that we can help move the country forward. If there is any problem anywhere, do not blame Moi, you can blame me," Ruto said.
''I looked for my brother to come and help me lift this country from the third world to the levels of Singapore,'' he added, noting that his outreach to Moi was part of a wider effort that also includes engaging Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The President disclosed that it was not easy to agree on how and where to make the reconciliation public, revealing that at some point, the KANU leader asked him how Kenyans would react to their unity pact.
''After our discussions, Gideon asked me who should make the announcement and where. I told him I have been to this place before, and that is where we will make it public.''
Gideon Dropping Senatorial Ambitions
Gideon Moi, on his part, acknowledged President Ruto’s gesture and explained his decision to put aside past political differences.
''The president knows why I never made it to the ballot. I had some unfinished business in Baringo, from roads to dams, that’s why I decided to vie. Because President Ruto was elected by Kenyans, I decided to listen to him,'' he said.
Ruto Goodies to Baringo
During the visit, President Ruto announced several development projects for Baringo County, including the construction and maintenance of all major roads as well as a stadium in Kabarnet, which he said would be launched in two months.
He further revealed plans to establish a new university in Kabarnet in honour of the late Daniel arap Moi’s legacy in founding Moi University in Eldoret.
