President William Ruto has hit back at critics of his broad-based government, firmly stating that unity should not be mistaken for betrayal. Speaking during a church service at Ntulele in Narok County on Sunday, Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to national cohesion and his continued support for churches, emphasizing that he will not be swayed by political opponents.
“Those who do not know God are telling us that unity is betrayal how sad and shameful,” Ruto said. “We are unapologetic and unashamed of uniting the nation of Kenya.”
The President has faced criticism over his sizeable donations to churches, including a recent Sh10 million donation for the construction of a church plaza. Civil society and sections of the political class have accused him of neglecting urgent socioeconomic issues. In response, Ruto reiterated his stand: “We will not be intimidated in pursuit of the work of God in our country.”
Ruto also promoted the government’s Social Health Authority (SHA), urging all Kenyans to register. He noted that 145,000 Kenyans sign up daily, which he said would eventually eliminate the need for medical fundraising through harambees.
Additionally, Ruto disclosed plans to engage MPs to transfer management of the Roads Levy Fund to the national government. The fund has been at the center of a standoff between MPs and governors, but Ruto argued the shift would accelerate equitable development.
The President’s visit to Narok is part of a broader development tour of Maa counties from May 6 to 8, a strategic move seen as an effort to cement support in the region amid rising political tensions with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Ruto was accompanied by top leaders, including Governors Patrick Ole Ntutu and Joseph Ole Lenku, Defence CS Soipan Tuya, and several MPs. Leaders from the region pledged their backing for Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, citing infrastructure, education, and land reforms.
Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina, previously a critic, declared that all 1.4 million Maa votes would go to Ruto and Raila Odinga. EALA MP David Sankok hailed the inclusive government, calling Raila “the king of peace.”
Ruto’s charm offensive in the Maa region appears designed to outmaneuver Gachagua’s growing influence and secure a united front ahead of the next general election
