Ruto defends broad-based government, vows to transform Kenya
By Lucy Mumbi |
He said the expanded government structure draws lessons from past protests and seeks to foster development while reducing political divisions.
President William Ruto has defended his decision to form a broad-based government, asserting his determination to transform the nation despite opposition.
Speaking at Kipkorgot AIC Church in Uasin Gishu on Sunday, Ruto explained that incorporating opposition leaders into his administration aims to promote national unity and stability.
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He said the expanded government structure draws lessons from past protests and seeks to foster development while reducing political divisions.
“I am determined to change this nation, and nothing will stop us from transforming Kenya. We have always aspired to roll out affordable housing, implement universal health coverage, and promote equality, and that is exactly what we are pursuing,” Ruto said.
He added that the government expansion would enable more leaders to join in advancing its agenda.
“The government has grown, and more people have come on board to push forward its programmes. Recently, I added more leaders to bring unity and drive national transformation,” he said.
The President also urged churches to take an active role in addressing societal challenges such as gender-based violence and femicide. He called on religious institutions to instil strong moral values in children to help prevent such issues.
Ruto’s recent Cabinet reshuffle, announced on Thursday, included appointments such as William Kabogo for Information, Communication, and Technology, Lee Kinyanjui for Trade, and Mutahi Kagwe for Agriculture.
Other notable appointments included former Laikipia Governor Nderitu Muriithi as Chairman of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and former Murang’a Senator Kembi Gitura as Chairperson of Kenyatta University Teaching, Research, and Referral Hospital.
Additionally, former Murang’a Governor Mwangi wa Iria was named non-executive Chairperson of the Public Procurement Regulatory Board for a three-year term.
While some political observers celebrated the appointments, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka criticised the reshuffle, describing it as a power-consolidation tactic rather than an effort to address national issues.
“President Ruto is leading a dysfunctional administration driven by self-interest. Leaders who cannot be trusted have made pacts with him at the expense of ordinary citizens,” Kalonzo said.
He argued that accepting political compromises in exchange for Cabinet positions for his allies would amount to betraying the country.
“If I were to make a pact with the President to secure Cabinet slots for my allies, it would be akin to selling the soul of this country,” he said.
Kalonzo dismissed claims that the reshuffle was broad-based, terming it “bread-based” and accusing politicians of prioritising personal gain over the welfare of Kenyans.
“It is not broad-based but bread-based, even blood-based, considering that some children lost their lives during protests. This is like dancing on the blood of those children,” he said.
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