by Njoroge Kaburo and Wang Xiaopeng
NYERI, Kenya, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta led the nation in marking 54 years of self-internal rule on Thursday amid calls for peaceful polls and unity across the country's political divide.
As celebrations were marked across the country, Kenyatta urge Kenyans to vote wisely in the August general election so that the country can continue on the path of prosperity and development.
He also urged Kenyans to re-elect him for a second term pointing out that he has laid down the foundations to accelerate the country's economic growth and create more unity.
"I appeal to Kenyans to give us the opportunity to finish the job we have started. A new Kenya is here. We must continue to dream big, and boldly implement our vision, so that every Kenyan can share in this country's bounty," he said in Nyeri in central Kenya where celebrations were held.
Kenyatta, who is seeking re-election for the second and final term of office, called on Kenyans not to allow politicians to divide them along ethnic and tribal lines.
"A peaceful and prosperous nation needs to be nurtured and protected by a united people. We must learn from our past, and shun those who would divide us on ethnic or religious lines," he said.
Kenyatta said he has laid the foundations on which to accelerate the country's economic growth and deserves a second term to build on the progress achieved in the last four years of his administration.
"I call upon you to always be careful and not allow those who would wish to destroy our peaceful nation," Kenyatta said.
The Kenyan leader faces stiff challenge from main opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Observers contend that August general elections will be hotly contested and their outcomes will have far-reaching implications on Kenya's stability and economic health.
As part of election preparedness, Kenyan agencies charged with security, law enforcement and war against graft have developed a set of guidelines to be abided by aspirants in order to ensure the polls are peaceful and transparent.
Kenyatta said security apparatus will remain vigilant and ready to deal with acts of lawlessness and asked Kenyans to reject politics of division and vote for peace.
"Keep faith that we will renew this nation, for we are a people of faith, and we believe that justice will prevail; that peace will prevail; and that the people of Kenya will prevail," he said.
He observed that Kenya is 45 million strong and should remain united as one family.
"Elections will come and go; we must remain one. Protect the house we have built and are building. That way, no matter the outcome, we will all win," the president urged all Kenyans.
