For the first time in as many months, Deputy President William Ruto shunned politics in church during the installation of Bishop Dominic Kimengich in Eldoret on Saturday.

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In previous gatherings, Dr Ruto has often taken jabs at his opponents as the race to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta takes shape.

Striking a reconciliatory tone, Ruto asked the church to aid in promoting peace and stability in the country.

He said that retrogressive politics is the cause of slow development in the region. 

“There is a need for a close working relationship between the State and religious organisations in terms of development, instead of engaging in divisive politics,” said Dr Ruto who read President Uhuru Kenyatta's message.

The president, in the message, asked leaders to help in the fight against corruption.

“What Kenyans need are visionary leaders devoid of corruption … where all Kenyans are united with a common goal of improving their livelihoods.”

Kimengich promised to spearhead peace crusades in North Rift, adding that communities should coexist peacefully together.

“I will put efforts to ensure that I carry on with the work of Bishop Korir, especially in uniting all the communities because we are all the children of God, we belong to one family. It is sad that communities in the North Rift don’t coexist peacefully,” said the Bishop, as quoted by Nation.