Wetang'ula urges defiant Azimio leaders to heed Ruto's unity call

The Speaker warned that divisive actions by the political class could not bring much-needed national healing, especially after the recent youth-led demands for reforms and improved governance.

"It is through the selfless and patriotic actions of the political class that national healing will be stimulated," he said.

Wetang'ula praised ODM leader Raila Odinga for allowing his allies to join President Ruto's Cabinet, which aims to foster the national healing and stability.

"He (Raila) responded positively to President Ruto's call for the formation of a broad-based Cabinet, thereby fostering the nation’s healing and stability," he said.

The Speaker urged other Azimio leaders to abandon their hardline stance and collaborate in forming a government of national unity.

"I call upon other Azimio leaders to abandon their hardline stance and collaborate in forming a government of national unity. This unity is essential for achieving Kenya’s economic stability and prosperity," he said.

Azimio co-principals Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), Jeremiah Kioni (Jubilee), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K) and Nark Kenya Martha Karua have declined Ruto's invitation to form a broad based government saying it was against the peoples' will.

The Speaker told Western Kenya leaders opposed to President Ruto’s call for broad based government that the well-being of Kenya surpasses individual interests.

"They should respect the leaders appointed to serve in the government," Wetang'ula said.

Among the Luhya leaders opposed to Ruto's broad based government are Governor George Natembeya (TransNzoia, DAP-K), Edwin Sifuna (Senator Nairobi, ODM Secretary General), Caleb Amisi (Saboti, ODM), Cleophas Malala (UDA, Secretary General), Peter Salasya (Mumias East, DAP-K), Godfrey Osotsi (Vihiga Senator, ODM), Nabii Nabwera (MP Lugari, ODM), Wanami Wamboka (Bumula MP, DAP-K) among others.