Fellow Kenyans, Today our nation is at a crossroads. We stand here during a defining moment, when we must all make the decision that we must regain the dignity of our nation, and restore the stability we have enjoyed since independence.

It is unfortunate that in some parts of the country, neighbours who have lived side-by-side peacefully for many years and have undertaken many cultural and social activities together have been incited to hate one another and view each other as enemies. This situation hurts me very deeply.

I recall the spirit of nationalism and unity that inspired the establishment of our nationhood on independence day in 1963. I feel deeply saddened to see Kenyans confronting one another violently over issues that can be discussed and resolved peacefully through dialogue.

I therefore strongly condemn all acts of violence that have been witnessed in parts of our country. We will from now henceforth implement stern measures against those who attempt to disrupt the peace or use violence against peace-loving wananchi.

Fellow Kenyans, This morning, I was distressed to hear of the sad news of the untimely death of the Member for Embakasi, the Honourable Mugabe Were. I join the rest of the country in mourning this gallant son of our nation, and again reiterate that the government will do all in its power to bring to book, those behind the brutal killing.

In the background of the sad events that have taken place in the last few weeks, we are also gathered here as patriots who love our country.

We are here to join hands with our international friends led by His Excellency Kofi Annan to begin what I believe is a critical step in the path of national healing and reconciliation.

Today, we are launching the process of National dialogue aimed at addressing the political situation in our country Kenya. At the very onset, I wish to pledge my support and that of my entire government to this process. I am glad that this process seeks to discuss, not just the immediate actions that must be taken to restore peace in our country, but will also address the long-term solutions to the underlying issues that have caused the problems.

As I have stated in the past, I remain fully committed to National reconciliation. As a nation, we must know that using violence against one another can never be a substitute to discussing with one another. As leaders, we have a responsibility to preach peace and act accordingly in our dealings with our followers.
I encourage all our leaders to go to their regions and urge wananchi to pursue peace and reconciliation amongst one another. I am therefore also making my personal appeal to all Kenyans to respect the sanctity of human life and the right of every Kenyan to live, work or own property in any part of the country.
It is important that we all respect this fundamental right of every Kenyan citizen.

In order to help in the resettlement of Kenyans who have been displaced from their homes, I have directed that 32 fully equipped police stations be constructed within the affected areas. 700 million shillings has already been released for this project. In addition, I have also created a national fund for the mitigation of the effects of the inter-communal violence, to assist the victims of the violence.

Fellow Kenyans,
As we launch this process of national dialogue let us all remain open minded. Let us remember that there was a reason why the Almighty God placed us all together in this beautiful country called Kenya.

I appeal to each and every one of us to know that we only have one country called Kenya. We must all play our individual roles in safeguarding our nationhood.

Finally, I wish to express my most sincere appreciation to Their Excellencies, Kofi Annan, Benjamin Mkapa and Graca Machel for the valuable time they have spent on this process. On behalf of all Kenyans I say Asante and wish you and the two teams God's speed as you begin the process of national healing and reconciliation.

Thank You and God Bless You and God Bless Kenya.