Elect honest, visionary leaders, Kibaki tells Kenyans

By Caleb Mutua

President Kibaki has advised Kenyans to elect county and national leaders who are patriot and strong-minded as the country prepares to the ballot in three months’ time.

The president noted major strides the country had made since 2002 and called on all Kenyans to elect leaders who are dedicated to maintaining the current momentum of growth.

Speaking during the 49th Jamhuri Day Celebrations at the Nyayo Stadium Thursday, he pleaded with Kenyans to register as voters before a week’s-time deadline to the nationwide exercise carried out by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.

“Kenyans should therefore elect honest, visionary and hardworking leaders who have the concern of Kenyans at heart in the next general election,” said president Kibaki.

He reminded Kenyans that registering to vote will enable them carry out their civic duty of electing leaders of their choice and participate in strengthening our democracy.

On the thorny issue of security, the president reiterated that his government will not hesitate to deal decisively with terrorists or any criminal elements.

He said his government will not let a few individuals destruct the country from living peacefully and harmoniously.

“I would like to assure Kenyans that the government is fully committed to providing adequate security for our people visitors and their properties. The on-going reforms in the security sector will enhance the capacity of our security agents to provide swift and adequate services to our people,” he said.

He asked Kenyans to promote peace and respect the rule of law saying it was the foundation of the country’s current and future development.

“We should be free to disagree and hold divergent opinions. But as we do so, we must remain both faithful and united,” urged Mr Kibaki. “Indeed our unity in diversity is our greatest strength.”

Mr Kibaki chose his last opportunity to preside over a national event as his second term in office comes to an end to express satisfaction in his own work.

The president chose to ignore the critics of his ten years in State Hose saying his work spoke for itself.

“The developments I have enumerated, which we have achieved in the last ten years, have laid the foundation for the economic, social and political transformation of our country,” he said.

Kibaki said that the promulgation of the new constitution, which Kenyans had waited for more than 20 years, remains his most memorable moment while in office.

Security in and outside the arena was tight as Kenyans endured hot December sun to celebrate their independence.

First published in December 2012.