Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged critics of President William Ruto’s administration to take a fairer approach when evaluating the government’s progress. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged critics of President William Ruto’s government to give him time. Speaking on Monday, February 3, during a consultative engagement with leaders and stakeholders from Samburu county, Kindiki stressed that significant achievements had been made in the first two years of Ruto’s leadership, despite strong opposition. Kindiki took the opportunity to appeal directly to those questioning the government’s pace and plans.
He urged them to acknowledge the progress made while giving the government the necessary time to implement its ambitious goals. The DP defended Ruto, explaining that he did not put a timeframe on his promises to Kenyans during the campaigns. “I ask government critics to be fair. I mean, be fair. Be fair because, you know, President Ruto did not say he would accomplish all these things in a day or a week, he has a five-year term. So, those questions will come at the right time,” Kindiki appealed. He also expressed confidence that, once the government’s promises are fulfilled, critics will be left without arguments. “But also, we don’t mind you reminding us what we said because you’re helping us achieve our targets. Because now, once we achieve our targets, I wonder what these characters will say. Because right now, they are saying, “Oh, this hasn’t started, this isn’t complete.” It will be completed,” Kindiki added.
Kindiki reminisce his time in office Reflecting on his own time in office, Kindiki marked his 95th day in office with a message of accountability and dedication. “Today is my 95th day in office. I thank God because, because of the experience I had in the interior, I have also told myself, I don’t know how long I will remain in this office. So every day, I will do my best to make sure that when my time comes to move on, I can account for my time in office,” he said. In a veiled response to critics who had questioned the government’s handling of finances, Kindiki pointed to recent payments to sugarcane farmers in Mumias County. The bonuses given to the farmers sparked a flurry of debate, with some questioning where the funds had come from. “Some individuals were shocked when farmers received their bonuses, questioning where the money came from. I assure you, we will outperform ourselves and confound our opponents.
That sugarcane and sugar farming, sugarcane farming, is going to be profitable. We waived the debts. We are now paying farmers every week. We are paying workers every month and every Friday, the farmer gets his cheque,” he stated. Kindiki also reflected on his tenure as the Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, where he led efforts to tackle the issues of livestock rustling and banditry that had plagued communities, especially in the northern regions.
by Didacus Malowa