President William Ruto has brushed off critics questioning his ongoing tour of the Mt Kenya region, asserting that his week-long visit is focused purely on development and not politics.
While addressing residents in Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, the Head of State emphasized that the tour is meant to inspect and launch key government projects that are transforming the region. “Tumeongea mambo ya chama hapa? Si tumeongea mambo ya maendeleo?” he asked, receiving resounding support from the crowd.
Ruto defended his decision to leave the office for on-ground engagements, saying some people complain when he is away from the public while others criticize his presence in the field. “But since you are my bosses and have said I should visit, wengine watafute kazi ya kufanya,” he remarked.
During his visit, the President handed over 60 newly built housing units to the National Police Service and inspected major projects including the Sh112 million Chogoria and Sh60 million Gatunga modern markets, the Chuka Affordable Housing Unit, and a new tuition complex at Tharaka University.
He also commissioned the Kamburu Dam Water Supply Project in Embu County, which will cost Sh789 million and benefit 88,000 residents with irrigation water, reinforcing his commitment to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was not present, but Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, who accompanied the President, assured locals that all directives issued during the tour would be implemented promptly. “My role as the deputy president is to ensure the president’s instructions are followed,” Kindiki said.
Local leaders including Governor Muthomi Njuki and MP Patrick Munene praised Ruto’s administration for tangible progress in the region. They dismissed claims that the region has abandoned the president and rubbished allegations that residents were paid to attend meetings.
“Those saying there has been no work, which country are they living in?” posed Munene. “People are here because of the development they can see — not handouts.”
Ruto’s message was clear: he remains focused on development, not political theatrics.
