Head of Public Service and Chief of Staff, Felix Koskei has called on Kenyans to embrace peaceful and issue-based politics, saying political competition should not be allowed to divide communities or undermine development of the country.

Speaking during the funeral of a respected elder at Romorio village in Chepkemel Location, Tinderet Sub County, Koskei said leaders should focus on issues that directly affect the lives of citizens, including education, healthcare, employment, infrastructure and economic empowerment.

The Head of Public Service urged residents to maintain unity and peaceful coexistence, particularly as the country heads towards another period of heightened political activity.

“Political differences should not be allowed to interfere with relationships among families, neighbours and communities,” he said.

Koskei challenged leaders to use politics as a platform for presenting development ideas and solutions to challenges facing the people instead of engaging in personal attacks and divisive rhetoric.

The Head of Public Service further emphasized the importance of citizens taking advantage of government programmes designed to improve livelihoods, create employment opportunities and empower vulnerable groups.

He said sustainable development required the participation of communities and responsible leadership at all levels.

“Education remains an important tool in transforming the lives of young people and so parents and community leaders should support children to remain in school and acquire skills that would enable them to participate meaningfully in the economy,” he asserted.

Koskei also called for responsible use of public resources, saying government programmes could only achieve their intended objectives if leaders and citizens worked together to promote accountability and efficient service delivery.

In his speech, Tiaty MP William Kamket urged the residents to approach politics with maturity and avoid allowing political differences to create unnecessary divisions among communities.

Kamket said leaders should be evaluated on the basis of their ability to address the economic and social challenges facing ordinary citizens.

He emphasized the need for greater investment in education, infrastructure, healthcare and employment opportunities for young people.

The legislator said unemployment remained a major challenge for the youth and called for policies and programmes that would equip them with relevant skills while creating opportunities for them to establish businesses and earn sustainable incomes.

“Leaders should strengthen efforts aimed at improving the welfare of rural communities, saying development should reach all parts of the country irrespective of political affiliation,” he said.

Kamket cautioned residents against being used to cause divisions during political contests, maintaining that elections should be viewed as an opportunity for citizens to choose leaders based on their ideas, programmes and commitment to development.

The duo urged residents to safeguard the values of unity, mutual respect and community responsibility, saying the legacy of respected elders should be preserved by ensuring that younger generations inherit a peaceful and prosperous society.

The funeral of Mama Hellen Serio, 92, brought together family members, friends, community leaders and political leaders who paid tribute to the deceased elder and celebrated his contribution to the community.

by Sammy Mwibanda