Deputy President Kithure Kindiki Thursday fiercely defended the William Ruto government saying already fruits of the efforts invested in development are being reaped.
The journey to full economic recovery especially after aftershocks of COVID 19, has been immense, the Deputy President observed.
The economy, he stated, was initially lying on its death bed before Ruto entered office and begun resuscitation efforts.
“Today, there are ongoing serious infrastructural projects, more others are being tendered and this doesn’t portray a government in slumber,” Kindiki stated.
The primary focus by the administration has been and would be, development until the time the country goes to another poll, stated Kindiki.
“We are deliberate and so earnest in the direction we are taking such that we have no time for rhetoric and politicking any more…in fact we are not available,” he said referring to the anti-Ruto polemic by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Among programs going on are electrification, provision of agricultural subsidies to farmer’s and investments on trade.
Kindiki said these are just part of what the administration has done to improve the country’s economy.
He was speaking in Nyanturago in Nyaribari Chache in Kisii during a fundraiser for local groups.
At least 400 groups received donations from the Sh10.5 million raised.
He was in the company of the host MP Zaheer Jhanda, and MPs Sylvanus Osoro, Japhet Nyakundi, Kimani Ichung’wa, Donya Toto, Fatuma Mohammed and Jerusha Mogaka among others.
Toto said the Gusii community must support the Ruto government to the end, saying that only through backing him would people get their fair share of development.
“You don’t milk a cow when you don’t own it. A government is like one you must be in it to gain, otherwise you would be groping in the dark,” she said.
Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed strongly condemned the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) within families and called for urgent intervention and community action to curb the vice.
She expressed concern over the increasing number of reported abuse cases, especially affecting women and children.
“It is unacceptable that in the 21st century, our homes — which should be safe havens — have become centers of pain and fear,” she said. “We must break the silence and confront gender violence head-on.”
Jhanda praised the vital role played by the informal savings and investment groups in strengthening the grassroots economy and empowering communities.
He commended the resilience and innovation shown by these groups, particularly among women and youth.
The MP noted that chamas have become crucial in mobilizing savings, promoting entrepreneurship, and reducing poverty across the region.
“Chamas are not just about saving money; they are a lifeline for many families and small businesses. They are the true drivers of our local economy,” he said.
Nyamira Woman Rep Jerusha Mogaka scoffed at those railing the government saying they will reap shame in the end.
West Mugirango MP Steve Mogaka said he has no apologies to make in working with the Ruto government though elected on a Jubilee party ticket.
He asked those still “stranded outside” to join the ‘winning’ bandwagon.
“Let’s stick to it, outside there is loneliness,” he stated.
MPs Osoro and Ichung’wa told Kenyan leaders sympathetic with Gachagua to be wary of him.
They accused him of hatching and orchestrating a fake abduction of Juja MP George Koimburi.
“If he is able to script a fake abduction subduction against his trusted lieutenants, then he is capable of even harming them and accuse the state for the same,” Osoro said.
Ichung’wa described as shameful the conduct of legislator Koimburi.
“One wonders what else are they planning to do. This act has not only wasted national resources but also degraded the real victims of abduction and insecurity.”
“Such behavior is unbecoming of a public leader and warrants the full force of the law.” he said.
Osoro said politics in the country was being soiled by such characters as Koimburi.
“This was a dirty stunt meant to paint the government negative but it has backfired on them …you now wonder what else is coming next in the sequel from Wamunyoro,” he added.
Already the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has poked major holes in the Juja Member of Parliament’s alleged abduction, accusing him of fabricating the incident to earn political sympathy and spark national tension.
Four suspects are in custody over the drama. Police are yet to talk to the MP.