Ruto defends economic reforms, vows to push ahead with affordable housing, cost of living agenda

President William Ruto has rejected criticism from political opponents, reaffirming his government’s commitment to stabilising the economy, lowering the cost of living, and improving food security.

Speaking on Tuesday at State House during the launch of the Affordable Housing Internship Programme, Ruto insisted that Kenya’s economic transformation is on track, despite opposition from what he described as misleading voices.

“We have a plan on how to create jobs, my friends. So let nobody lie to you. You know when you hear people speak, it is as if Kenya is the worst country in the world,” Ruto said.

A tough-talking Ruto insisted that Kenya has achieved significant progress compared to many nations and dismissed claims that the country is headed in the wrong direction.

“We must reject those who want to tell us otherwise… that oh, you, Kenya is a failed state. Do you know what a failed state looks like?” he posed.

He said the statistics on the economy confirm that his administration’s plans are working.

“You can say whatever you want to say, but facts are stubborn. I have had to make very difficult decisions to get us here, and I have no regret whatsoever,” Ruto said, adding that his government is determined to ensure the economy remains on an upward trajectory.

Sound footing

“Today, I can confidently tell the country that our economy is on sound footing and we are going to improve on it. I’m very clear in my mind on what we need to do to make sure that we create a food security system, deal with inflation, deal with the cost of living, and make sure that the cost of food does not cause a crisis.”

He also addressed growing concerns that his administration may have taken on too many projects at once, saying he will not scale down his agenda.

“I hear so many people saying, you have taken on too many assignments. You know you should do some of these now. You should wait. You remain popular so that you can implement some of them some other time,” he said.

According to Ruto, the country cannot afford to postpone development.

“It is not always that you get an opportunity to be president. It comes once in a lifetime. So when you get that opportunity, don’t waste it, right?” he said.

During the same event, the President directed the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development to enlist more private companies and professionals into the Affordable Housing Programme, as part of efforts to fast-track the housing agenda.

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