Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has urged Kenyans to reject divisive and ethnic politics, warning that the country's future depends on peace, national unity and strong democratic institutions as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi on Monday during a meeting with the Quaker community, Mudavadi said leadership should never be reduced to tribal considerations, insisting that those entrusted with governing the country must be guided by humility, patience and a commitment to serving all Kenyans.
Drawing on the Quaker movement's history of promoting peace, Mudavadi reminded the congregation that two Quaker institutions jointly received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1947 for assisting victims of war and conflict.
"You got it because you distinguished yourselves to come out and help victims of conflict, of war, people who had suffered, who had been displaced, who had lost their lives, loved ones," he said, adding that "peace is the hallmark of Quakerism. It is the anchor of Quakerism."
He argued that those values remain relevant today, saying Kenya requires "a stable government, stable leadership, sound policies, strong democracy, functioning institutions."
Mudavadi thanked President Ruto for accepting the Quaker community's request to hold a prayer meeting, saying the gathering demonstrated shared commitment to national unity and improving the welfare of Kenyans.
"We stand here... to show solidarity with what you're doing for this country, working to improve the well-being and welfare of millions of Kenyans," he said.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary also linked peace to economic prosperity, urging Kenyans to reflect on "the economic value of peace" and the devastating cost of conflict.
Referring to ongoing crises in the region, he cited the war in Sudan, where he said nearly 25 million people have been displaced, as well as the conflict in the Middle East, arguing that instability beyond Kenya's borders continues to drive up fuel prices and increase the cost of living.
He praised President Ruto's role in regional mediation efforts, saying resolving conflicts is essential for economic stability and long-term development.
"It calls for leadership, it calls for stability, it calls for planning. That is where President Ruto gives us direction," Mudavadi said.
He also cautioned against electing leaders motivated by revenge and bitterness.
"It is dangerous to give leadership and responsibility to an individual... who is driven by vengefulness, bitterness... who is driven by vindictiveness," he said. "We cannot convert the leadership of this country to an ethnic poll. It's not about tribalism. It is about safeguarding the lives of all the 55, 56 million people in Kenya."
Mudavadi expressed confidence that Kenya would conduct peaceful elections, urging citizens not to be misled by divisive rhetoric.
"There shall be peaceful elections in Kenya. Don't be cheated. Kenya has maintained democratic principles, and President Ruto will uphold those rights for all Kenyans," he said.
His remarks come as political activity continues to intensify across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders from both the ruling coalition and the opposition stepping up campaigns and appeals for peaceful political engagement.