Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Kenyans to look past the 2027 general elections and focus on President William Ruto's Vision 2060 agenda, emphasizing its significance for the country's long-term development.
Speaking during a Sunday gathering in Irunduni, Tharaka Nithi County, Kindiki described the Vision 2060 initiative as a critical framework that will impact generations yet to come. He cautioned against reducing national discussions to short-term political battles.
Long-Term National Goals
"Next year’s elections will come and go. There will be a winner, and there will be someone who does not win. Both are Kenyans," Kindiki stated, urging politicians to avoid politicizing every national conversation. He highlighted that the Vision 2060 plan aims to transform Kenya into a prosperous nation capable of competing with countries like Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, and China.
Development Achievements
Kindiki pointed to the current government's infrastructure achievements as evidence of progress. He noted that over 6,000 kilometres of previously stalled roads are now being rehabilitated after the government cleared Sh177 billion in pending payments to contractors.
- In Tharaka Nithi, 15 kilometres of the Mioponi-Mukothima-Gachiongo-Gatunga road have been completed.
- The government is rolling out 600 modern markets nationwide, with completed facilities in Chuka, Chogoria, and Gatunga.
Addressing Political Criticism and Ethnic Divisions
Responding to critics advocating for a one-term presidency for Ruto, particularly those seeking to regain influence in Mt Kenya, Kindiki urged patience and highlighted the administration's commitment to equitable development.
He dismissed attempts to stoke ethnic tensions, emphasizing that the government's development approach is grounded in equal opportunity and fair distribution of resources such as roads, electricity, water, markets, and jobs across all regions.
Looking Beyond 2027
Kindiki reassured government supporters amid political maneuvering, emphasizing that the debate about Kenya's future should transcend the upcoming elections.
"Vision 2060 is not about next year’s elections. It is about the future of Kenya, the future of our children and the future of our grandchildren," he said. He urged all Kenyans to avoid politicizing the country's development trajectory, which aims to transition Kenya from a developing to a prosperous nation.