DP William Ruto's Office Calls for National Handshake Day

Deputy President William Ruto's office is now pushing for a national handshake day to encourage reconciliation and healing among Kenyans following historical injustices.

According to the DP's Conflict Management and Peace Building Unit (CMPB), the day proposed should be used to encourage warring factions to forgive one another for the sake of national unity and prosperity. 

The members of the unit further called for the expansion of the existing political handshake to reach out Kenyans from all walks of life. 

[caption caption="File image of President Uhuru Kenyatta and NASA leader Raila Odinga"][/caption]

Speaking during a meeting on Friday, CMPB Secretary Beverly Koech noted that the handshake ought to be adopted across the country from individual counties, marketplaces, and schools.

"We will announce that anyone with a grudge against another person should come out and state the grievances, the clergies will then guide on how to let go," Koech declared. 

Supporting Koech's sentiments, retired Catholic Bishop Alfred Rotich affirmed that the Church will move swiftly to ensure that existing political unity is replicated among Kenyans who have been fighting each other.

"We have had a lot of handshakes which have cooled down temperatures and allowed us to have peace around the country, we as the church will not rest but will take advantage of this to unite Kenyans," the Bishop mentioned.

The team also declared that they would get members from different Government ministries, County Government, Religious and Non-Governmental Organization who will aid to kick off joint peace initiatives across different counties. 

They highlighted that the initiative intends to identify conflict areas where warring groups will be assisted to initiate income generating projects by different Government ministries and well-wishers. 

Those who will be identified will be then expected to refrain from any illegal and violent activities and engage in development activities.

So far, the CMPB has identified five counties including Migori, Kwale, Kilifi, Bungoma, and Baringo to be their start-up projects. 

"The Government through the different ministries will offer all the necessary support through skills and financing of income generating project to deter criminal activities," she added.

Last year the Office of the Deputy President through Conflict Management and Peace Building Unit preached peace in Kilifi and Bungoma counties so as to avoid chaos during the 2017 elections.

[caption caption="File image of Deputy President William Ruto and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka"][/caption]

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