Aden Duale should be William Ruto’s running mate in 2022 to show any tribe can lead Kenya, a group of Nakuru professionals has proposed.
Deputy President Ruto is expected to vie for the top seat after President Uhuru Kenyatta finishes his second and final five-year term.
The professionals made the recommendation after the Jubilee Party leaders were inaugurated at Kasarani stadium on Tuesday.
In their speeches, Uhuru reached out to Opposition leaders, saying they need to unite and develop Kenya, while Ruto spoke against division based on religion and tribe.
Speaking in Molo, group representative Michael Bowen said Duale’s appointment will rule out the perception that leadership is only meant for a few communities.
“Since democracy has risen and closed ethnic and religious gaps, Duale is fit for the post.”
“We are happy that the Jubilee Party administration has united Kenyans regardless of their ethnicity,” he said.
Bowen further told journalists that the Garissa Town MP and National Assembly Majority Leader has stood with Ruto through thick and thin.
Duale has been Ruto’s close ally since their time in the defunct United Republican Party (URP).
Bowen added that the lawmaker has rallied pastoralists behind Uhuru and Ruto.
Geoffrey Sang said: “So as to prove that anybody can lead this nation, we request the DP to consider Duale as his deputy when he takes over from Uhuru.”
Uhuru, declared the rightful elections winner after a lengthy cycle, said he will work with all leaders to achieve the objectivity of oneness.
“My election does not invalidate the aspirations of those who did not vote for me. I undertake to be the custodian of the dreams of all, the keeper of the aspirations of those who voted for me and those who didn’t. I will be President for all Kenyans,” he said.
“I am reaching out to all leaders across the political divide. It is time for us, as a people, to learn that it is fine for us to agree to disagree while still strengthening our bonds of unity and nationhood.
