Political Showdown as Ruto attends burial in Gatundu North

Deputy President William Ruto has asked Mount Kenya leaders not to brand President Uhuru Kenyatta a regional kingpin, but instead allow him to carry out his national responsibilities.

Addressing mourners at the burial of Mary Wambui Wainaina, the mother of Thika Town MP Patrick Wainaina, at St Francis Mang'u, Gatundu North yesterday, Dr Ruto said all was well between him and the President despite what he termed political noise.

“President Kenyatta belongs to all Kenyans, and I urge you to ask your leaders not to mislead the President that he is a leader of Mt Kenya region. You should know that the President is yours by birth but he belongs to all Kenyans after he was elected to lead the country,” said Ruto.

The DP reiterated that he decided to work with the President not just for the sake of power but peace and stability of the country.

“We shall ensure Kenya remains peaceful and we shall not allow this country to backslide to ethnic groups as propagated by a few individuals. The job you gave us is what we are working very hard to fulfill,” the DP said.

The President in his speech that was delivered by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, described Wambui as a God fearing and hardworking woman who inspired residents by educating her children.

Mr Wainaina urged leaders to avoid politicking at the burial ceremony.