President William Ruto on Thursday praised Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki as a focused and dependable partner in government, saying his commitment to national service exemplifies Kenya’s promise of equal opportunity for all.
Speaking during the International Minorities Rights Day celebrations at State House, Nairobi today President Ruto said Kindiki had distinguished himself through diligence and professionalism, working tirelessly to support the government’s development agenda across the country.
The Head of State noted that the Deputy President had not allowed his background as a member of a minority community to limit his vision or commitment to serving all Kenyans.
“I am very proud that the office I once occupied is now held by a very capable, professional leader who also comes from a minority group in Mt Kenya,” Ruto said.
President Ruto said his administration was deliberate in ensuring that leadership and public service reflect the diversity of the nation, adding that inclusion was not only a constitutional obligation but also a strength for Kenya’s unity and development.
He said his deputy performance in office demonstrated that leadership is about competence, integrity and dedication not ethnic or regional background.
The President reiterated his government’s commitment to building an inclusive society where no Kenyan feels left behind stressing that development must reach every corner of the country regardless of history or geographical.
Prof. Kindiki, who was present at the event, described his service as both an honour and a privilege, saying his position was living proof that Kenya offers opportunities to all citizens, irrespective of their origins.
“If anybody is in doubt as to whether Kenya is a land of equal opportunity, I am the best exhibit the clearest example that it is indeed possible for anyone,from anywhere and from any background to occupy any position and contribute to Kenya’s development,” the Deputy President said.
He added that his journey in public service reflected the aspirations of many Kenyans from minority and marginalized communities who for decades felt excluded from the national conversation.
The former Interior Cabinet secretary said the government would continue to protect the rights of minority and indigenous communities, noting that the Constitution expressly prohibits discrimination and exclusion of any group.
“Marginalization is an indictment to ourselves that some communities had been marginalized in the past, and minority communities were the most affected but now, we must integrate all communities and move forward as one country.”noted Kindiki .
He emphasized that unity and inclusion were essential for sustainable development, warning that no nation can prosper when sections of its population feel neglected or unheard.
At the same time ,President Ruto launched the National Policy on Ethnic Minorities, Indigenous and Marginalized Communities, a framework designed to mainstream these groups in national development and safeguard them against all forms of discrimination.
The policy seeks to enhance access to education, healthcare, land rights, economic opportunities and political participation for minority and marginalized communities, while also preserving their cultural heritage.
President Ruto said the policy would guide government institutions in addressing historical injustices and ensuring fair representation and equitable allocation of resources.
The celebrations were attended by hundreds of representatives from minority communities drawn from different parts of the country, who welcomed the policy as a significant step towards recognition and inclusion.
Several speakers at the event said the recognition of minority rights was long overdue and expressed optimism that the new policy would translate into tangible benefits on the ground.
Kindiki further said the country’s future lay in unity, fairness and equal opportunity, pledging to continue working towards a nation where every citizen feels valued and included.
