President William Ruto on Sunday defended his decision to host delegations at State House, saying the official residence belongs to all Kenyans regardless of their background, religious belief or status.
Responding after his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua criticised the visit and branded members of the Akorino delegation as traitors, Ruto dismissed the remarks as misguided and divisive.
The President said no Kenyan should be made to feel inferior or unworthy of accessing State House, accusing his critics of harbouring elitist attitudes that look down upon certain groups.
“State House is not a preserve of a few. It belongs to all Kenyans — including those some people consider a minority,” Ruto said.
He said leadership demands inclusivity and respect for diversity, stressing that every community and group has a place in the country’s governance and national discourse.
Ruto further took issue with leaders who question the legitimacy of certain groups visiting the presidency, saying such views undermine unity and national cohesion.
“Those criticising these engagements must stop looking down upon fellow Kenyans as if they are not fit to be hosted here,” he said.
“This State House is for all Kenyans, and everyone who comes here should not be questioned. I am the President who decides who comes here.”
The President spoke when he hosted Akorino Israel believers for a thanksgiving service at State House.
Also attending the morning service were his deputy, Kithure Kindiki, and the National Assembly Majority leader, Kimani Ichung’wah.
The head of state reiterated his commitment to fostering unity across the country, noting that his administration is focused on bringing together Kenyans from all walks of life.
He said building an inclusive nation requires embracing diversity and engaging all communities, regardless of their size or influence.
The remarks came hours after Gachagua had branded members of the Akorino Church who went to State House for a Sunday service as ‘tumbocrats’ who have betrayed the community.
“You [Ruto] have this morning summoned members of the Akorino sect to State House to pray for you and sanitise you for profiling and persecuting our community,” Gachagua said in a statement.
“For the Akorino going to State House, please speak for your stomachs, not us. You join the long list of traitors who have turned against their own to fill their stomachs.”
Addressing the congregants, Kindiki hit at Gachagua, terming his remarks disrespectful to the Akorino Church.
He said the President, being the symbol of unity, is free to host all Kenyans.
“Let us respect each other. I have heard some people insulting Wakorino because they have come to State House,” Kindiki said.
“The President called us here because he is the symbol of national unity. Churches have visited this State House, including Methodists, of which I am a member. Why is it painful when Wakorinos come here?”
Ichung’wah, while also condemning Gachagua’s remarks, urged the President to ignore critics and continue with his resolve to unite the country.
“Don’t chest-thump, even insulting religious leaders because they have visited State House. Let us respect each other. I want to urge you to remain focused on that mission, which is to unite the people of Kenya and improve our economy,” Ichung’wah noted.
The President also called on government agencies to desist from discriminating against members of the Akorino in workplaces.
Ruto also promised to help the church build an ultra-modern college on Sh120 million worth of land, as well as support 10 Saccos run by the church to the tune of Sh5 million each.
“I will send my Deputy President to do a harambee on top of that Sh5 million,” Ruto added.
