This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
On October 16, 2019, President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed concerns that the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) was a ploy to secure a position for him after his term expires in 2022.
Speaking during the commissioning of the JKIA-Westlands expressway, Kenyatta emphasized his commitment to retiring from politics once his term ends.
The president attributed the BBI's formation to his historic March 9, 2018, handshake with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, stating that the initiative is focused on promoting peace in the country.
He expressed confidence that with Odinga's support, the BBI would succeed, labeling those opposed to it as 'conmen.'
“BBI is not about giving me a position. It is about ensuring there will be no bloodshed in this country. That process, with help from my brother Raila, I am sure will pass,” Kenyatta stated.
He reiterated that the BBI's purpose is not political, saying, “We will be back with BBI very soon. Let no one lie to you that it is about politics.”
President Kenyatta's vision for his legacy is centered around unity and ensuring that Kenyans do not shed blood due to politics.
