CS Ruku rallies unity, warns against division
Speaking during the 28th Diocesan Anniversary Thanksgiving of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Mbeere at the ACK Cathedral of St Peter’s in Siakago, Embu County, Ruku emphasized the importance of supporting the government and rejecting clan-based divisions that have historically hindered development in the region.
Ruku warned against the “balkanization of communities,” urging residents to set aside clanism and tribal affiliations in favor of national unity and shared progress.
He reminded the congregation that the future of their children depends on the choices made today, including backing development efforts led by the current administration. He expressed his belief that only through cooperation and unity can communities realize meaningful change.
Drawing from personal experience, Ruku said, “I have an 18-year-old son, and like all parents, I want a better Kenya for him and his peers. That future starts with the decisions we make now.”
During his address, Ruku also took aim at opposition leaders, accusing them of manipulating the frustrations of young people to incite unrest for political gain.
While acknowledging the very real challenges youth face, he cautioned that stoking anger and division only undermines national peace and stability. He emphasized the need for responsible leadership and called on young people not to be misled into chaos for political expediency.
He further cautioned against divisive rhetoric that labels and segregates Kenyans along tribal lines, saying that such actions threaten to destabilize the nation and reverse hard-won progress.
Highlighting key development achievements and government plans, Ruku announced that the current financial budget includes allocations for major infrastructure projects in the region, including the Mukanda, Kanyuambora, and Kamata irrigation schemes.
He further mentioned the upgrading of roads such as the Kanyuambora–Kamumu road and the Gikuyari–Muminji–Ishiara road, which is slated to be tarmacked.
He praised the Affordable Housing Programme for not only providing dignified living conditions but also creating employment opportunities for young people.
In the education sector, he announced the construction of 85 Junior Secondary School (JSS) classrooms in Mbeere North, each funded with Ksh 1 million.
The government, he noted, has already employed 76,000 teachers, with plans to hire an additional 24,000 by the end of 2025.
According to Ruku, these initiatives are a clear demonstration that the government is focused on service delivery and long-term development, not short-term politics.
Ruku acknowledged that the economy had been in poor shape, but assured the faithful that the government’s recovery plans are already restoring stability and opening up opportunities.
He called on the Church to continue partnering with the State in promoting moral leadership, unity, and peace. He praised the role of faith-based institutions in shaping national values and expressed the administration’s readiness to collaborate with the Church for the betterment of society.
In closing, Ruku reiterated that true development can only be achieved when communities stand together, work together, and believe in the possibilities of a united Kenya.