State House has responded to lawyer and activist Morara Kebaso’s recent exposé, which has taken the internet by storm. Kebaso’s nationwide tour scrutinizing the progress of development projects launched by President William Ruto has stirred significant debate. His revelations suggest that numerous projects are white elephants, despite the substantial funds reportedly allocated to them.
Morara Kebaso, who has emerged as a prominent figure in the accountability movement, embarked on a nationwide inspection of projects launched by President Ruto. His findings, published on August 18, 2024, quickly went viral, capturing public attention and sparking a wave of criticism directed at the government. Kebaso’s investigation focused on projects that he claims have failed to materialize or are significantly behind schedule.
One of the most striking examples Kebaso highlighted is the Metembe-Marani road project in Kisii County. Originally launched by President Uhuru Kenyatta in 2016, Kebaso noted that the same stretch of road was relaunched by President Ruto on August 13, 2024, with a new commemorative plaque bearing Ruto’s name. This move, according to Kebaso, was a blatant example of political chicanery, suggesting that the project was merely being repackaged for political gain.
Kebaso’s critical assessment did not go unnoticed. He publicly questioned the tangible benefits that the residents of Kisii County have received from these projects, and his scathing remarks included a call for accountability from local leaders who, in his view, had failed to deliver real development.
In response to the mounting scrutiny, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed took to social media to refute Kebaso’s claims. In a detailed statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Mohammed challenged Kebaso’s findings and provided an alternative account of the Metembe-Marani road project.
Mohammed clarified that the project, which spans 64.6 km and crosses Kitutu Chache North and South constituencies, was initially awarded on May 11, 2016, and commenced on August 5, 2016, following its launch by President Kenyatta. However, he acknowledged that the contract was terminated on May 16, 2023, due to the contractor’s non-performance. At the time of termination, 27 km of the road had been completed.
According to Mohammed, President Ruto’s recent relaunch of the road project was not an attempt to deceive the public but rather a necessary step to address the halted work. The project was re-tendered and awarded on March 14, 2024, with construction recommencing on June 22, 2024. Mohammed emphasized that the new contract has a duration of 42 months, with an additional 36 months allocated for maintenance.
State House’s response sought to downplay Kebaso’s concerns, suggesting that the relaunch was a routine procedural matter and not indicative of any scandal. Mohammed advised Kebaso to focus on ongoing sections of the project, implying that the real work was being carried out and that plaques should not be the focal point of scrutiny.
This direct rebuttal from State House marks a significant shift in the government’s approach to Kebaso’s revelations. The response highlights the tension between the activist’s critique and the government’s defense of its development programs. As Kebaso continues to gain followers and influence through his relentless pursuit of accountability, the debate over the effectiveness and transparency of President Ruto’s projects remains a hot topic in Kenyan politics.
Among the other projects Kebaso has scrutinized are the Kabonyo Fisheries and Aquaculture project, the Kipkarren Water Treatment and Piping Project near Eldoret Airport, and the Malava Water Supply project. His findings have ignited a broader discussion about the management and oversight of public development projects in Kenya, reflecting a growing public demand for transparency and accountability from government officials.
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