This archive report was first published on 19 October 2019.
President Uhuru Kenyatta's legacy is tied to the implementation of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) report, which is expected to be released soon. Speaking in Mombasa on Friday, he dismissed claims that he was under political pressure and slammed critics of the handshake for spreading hostile propaganda.
Uhuru described criticism against the BBI as 'petty' and inconsequential, declaring that he would not be blackmailed into backing down on his rapprochement with Raila and promoting national cohesion.
He emphasized that the main purpose of BBI is to unite Kenyans and create an inclusive system where everyone is part of the government. 'You cannot be a united progressive country if certain people feel left out or are being left behind,' Uhuru said.
Deputy President William Ruto, however, has been vocal in his opposition to the BBI. He claims that the initiative is a one-man pursuit and that Raila should be asked what changes he needs to the Constitution for him to accept election outcomes.
On Wednesday, Uhuru said he is not after any position after his term ends, stating, 'Mimi sitaki kazi. Mimi nimechoka. BBI ni kuhakikisha ya kuwa hakuna mKenya atamwaga damu katika nchi yetu' (I don't want any work, I am tired. BBI will ensure that Kenyans do not spill blood).
