President William Ruto has praised Deputy President Kithure Kindiki for his focus, diligence and commitment to public service, saying his background has not hindered his contribution to national development.
The President said Kindiki had been tireless in supporting the government’s development agenda across all parts of the country, describing him as a capable and professional leader.
“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,” President Ruto said.
The Head of State made the remarks on Thursday during the International Minorities Rights Day celebrations held at State House, Nairobi.
President Ruto noted that Prof. Kindiki’s rise to the second-highest office in the country underscored the government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity, regardless of one’s background or community.
Speaking at the same event, the Deputy President said serving in the office was both a privilege and a demonstration that Kenya offers equal opportunities to all citizens.
“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, irrespective of their background,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting minority and indigenous communities, noting that the Constitution prohibits discrimination against any group.
He acknowledged that marginalization had affected some communities in the past, particularly minority groups, but emphasized the need for national unity and inclusion.
“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,” he said.
During the event, President Ruto launched the National Policy on Ethnic Minorities, Indigenous and Marginalized Communities, which aims to mainstream these groups into national development and safeguard them against all forms of discrimination.
The celebrations were attended by hundreds of representatives from minority communities drawn from across the country.
