Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga
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In his New Year address, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga urged Kenyans to reflect on the nation's future as the country approaches 2025.
Emphasizing the need for unity and collective action, Odinga highlighted the ongoing challenges that have persisted into the new year, stemming from a notably difficult 2024. The former Prime Minister notes that last year was marked by significant issues, yet it demonstrated the resilience of the Kenyan people in confronting existential threats to their unity and stability.
"The year that has just ended has been tough and dramatic. But it has also showcased our capacity to withstand existential problems and pull back from the brink as a nation," Odinga remarks.
He called on citizens to engage in meaningful dialogue aimed at identifying mutual solutions essential for securing a stable future. Odinga's message comes at a critical moment, as he prepares to contend for the position of chair of the African Union Commission in February.
He positions his call for unity not only as a necessary strategy for Kenya but also as a model for cooperation across the African continent. As Kenyans welcome the New Year, Odinga's address stands as a pivotal reminder of the choices facing the nation.
He stresses that moving forward necessitates a collective commitment to overcoming divisions in pursuit of the common good. In Kisii, President William Ruto led a prayer for the nation during the New Year's Eve State Dinner as Kenyans prepared to welcome 2025. In his remarks, the President expressed gratitude for the blessings of 2024, emphasizing the progress and guidance the country had received over the past year.
In his prayer, Ruto acknowledged the country's achievements, saying, “We thank you for all the good, progress that was achieved in 2024. Heavenly Father, we thank you for lifting us up even as we stumbled.” He urged divine protection for Kenya as the new year approached, asking, “Father we have 2025 in a few minutes, we ask that you go ahead of us so that you can protect this nation.”
Further, Ruto extended his prayer to the leaders of Kenya, asking for wisdom to discern and fulfil God's will for the nation. “You have granted us the opportunity to lead your people; help us to understand and know your will for the nation, help us so that your will is done in Kenya,” he said.