Parliamentary Service Commission Chairman and Speaker of the
National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula hosted a grand Iftar at
Parliament on Thursday night, bringing together leaders from across different spheres of
government in a powerful demonstration of unity, faith, and patriotism.
Alongside his Senate Counterpart Amason Kingi were Cabinet
Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Ali Hassan Joho, Environment CS Aden Duale, and Muslim and Christian Members of Parliament
and parliamentary staff.
The gathering underscored the importance of national cohesion, religious tolerance, and collective responsibility in tackling Kenya’s challenges.
Speaking as the host, Speaker Wetang’ula urged Kenyans to
stand united in support of their government and the country’s development
agenda.
"As we break our fast tonight, let us remind ourselves
that Kenya is bigger than any one of us. It is our shared home, and it is our
collective duty to build and protect it," he declared.
He also dismissed criticism directed at leaders working with
the government, emphasizing the importance of setting aside selfish interest
for national service.
"Those who are attacking leaders like Raila Odinga have failed to see the bigger picture. He has publicly acknowledged that leadership is about sacrifice and serving all Kenyans, not personal gain. We must learn that those who wish to rise must first uplift others. And when the time comes, they too must allow others to stand on their shoulders," Wetang’ula stated.
The Speaker noted the unique spiritual alignment of the
concurrence of Ramadan and the Lenten season observed by a section of
Christians terming it a golden opportunity for national reflection and
interfaith harmony.
"This is a special moment for Kenya, as our Muslim
brothers and sisters observe Ramadan while Christians reflect during Lent. This
should remind us that, beyond our religious differences, we are one people,
called to serve, love, and uphold the values of peace and unity," Wetang’ula
said.
In his speech, Speaker Wetang’ula reminded the leaders
present that challenges are inevitable, but Kenya’s destiny depends on
collective effort and responsible leadership.
"No country is without challenges. Even the strongest
democracies have their struggles. But as leaders, our responsibility is not to
dwell on division it is to offer solutions, to unite our people, and to inspire
confidence in the future," he stated.
Recognizing the role of politics in national discourse, he added:
"Politics is a competitive field, and in the heat of
competition, words are exchanged, and sometimes even tempers flare. But at the
end of the day, we are all Kenyans. We must learn to reflect, to reconcile, and
to remember that we are stronger together because we have only one country Kenya."
Speaker Wetang’ula also used the platform to champion
environmental conservation, calling on all leaders to take proactive steps in
protecting the country’s natural resources.
"Our environment is a heritage for future generations.
I propose that we, as Parliament, take a leadership role by organizing a
national tree-planting initiative. Let us show our commitment, not just in words,
but in action," he urged.
He further assured that Parliament would continue enacting
laws that promote sustainable environmental practices while advancing Kenya’s
development agenda.
Drawing comparisons with global success stories, Speaker
Wetang’ula challenged African leaders to push for real socio-economic
transformation that uplifts the ordinary citizen.
"When we look around the world, we see nations that
have risen from the ashes. China, Vietnam, and even parts of Europe that were
once war-torn have transformed into economic giants. Africa, and Kenya in
particular, must now rise to its full potential," he said.
He emphasized that economic growth must translate into
social progress and prosperity for all.
"For too long, Africa has been described as the
sleeping giant. It is time we wake up. We must stop quoting Malaysia and others
as our former equals we must surpass them. And that transformation begins with
us, today," Wetang’ula declared.
The Ramadan Iftar dinner drew to a close, Speaker Wetang’ula
expressed his hope that the night’s gathering would serve as a lasting symbol
of Kenya’s unity and shared destiny.
"Tonight, we have come together not as Muslims or
Christians, not as government or opposition, but as Kenyans. This is the Kenya
we must always fight for one of respect, tolerance, and progress," he
concluded.
The event fully sponsored by Premier bank commenced with
leaders breaking the fast together, reaffirming their commitment to unity,
national development, and interfaith understanding.
