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President William Ruto has challenged his political opponents to parade their development track record instead of engaging in insults and promoting tribal politics.

Speaking on his second day tour of the Gusii region, Ruto said leaders seeking support from Kenyans must present tangible achievements and clear plans, rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric.

He said the country’s progress depends on issue-based politics anchored on development and unity.

“Those who are competing with us, tell us your development record. I cannot be your only agenda. Tell Kenyans what you have done to them,” Ruto said.

The President also took a swipe at his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of advancing a discriminatory narrative against Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda.

During the United Opposition's rally in Kisii in February, Gachagua referred to the Nyaribari Chache MP, who is of Asian descent, as ‘Muhindi’ while questioning the legitimacy of the local voters who elected him and urging residents to vote him out in 2027.

Ruto said such utterances risk undermining national cohesion and reversing gains made in fostering inclusivity.

“That man who is full of tribalism has no mandate to dictate who you should elect (as your MP) Jhanda is one of you and has served the people with unmatched dedication,” he added.

The head of state urged leaders across the political divide to uphold unity and refrain from statements that could inflame tensions, reiterating his administration’s commitment to equitable development across all regions of the country.

Ruto maintained that his government remains focused on delivering its development agenda, noting that all parts of the country will benefit regardless of political affiliation.

He was accompanied by Kisii Governor Simba Arati, National Assembly Majority whip Sylvanus Osoro and a host of area elected MPs.

The Presidentcommitted Sh100 million to upgrade Nyamache Subcounty Referral Hospital and an additional Sh20 million for 10 classrooms and two laboratories at Nyamache Medical Training College.

He also commissioned the Masimba modern market in Nyaribari Masaba at a cost of Sh55 million, which has a capacity of 300 traders.

The President also supported the broad-based arrangement with ODM, defending it as a move to foster unity and inclusivity across the country.

Speaking in Kisii yesterday, Ruto dismissed criticism surrounding the arrangement, saying the decision was intentional and meant to bring Kenyans together across political divides.

"Broad-based government was not a mistake; it was deliberate. It was intentional,” Ruto said.

He said the approach was designed to ensure that all Kenyans feel represented in government, regardless of their political affiliation, while also strengthening national cohesion.

The President underscored unity as a key driver of development, warning that divisions have previously slowed progress. He urged citizens to embrace cooperation and collective responsibility to unlock the country’s potential.

“In my equation, I wanted a situation where no Kenyan is left behind,” he said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusivity.

Arati, who doubles up as the ODM deputy leader, said the Orange party will continue the partnership with Ruto in line with its former Raila Odinga’s wishes.