EMBU, Kenya – President William Ruto has pushed back against claims that his ongoing development tour of the Mt Kenya region is politically motivated, saying public participation in development matters is a constitutional requirement.
Speaking during stops in Embu and Tharaka-Nithi counties, the President said leaders have a duty to engage citizens in planning and implementation of projects.
“The Constitution makes it mandatory that, in everything we do, we must engage the public,” he said.
President Ruto, accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, governors, Cabinet Secretaries, and Members of Parliament, said the time for politics would come, adding that leaders would campaign in their party colours when that season arrives.
He urged Kenyans to focus on development and national unity, pledging to deliver on his campaign promises and transform the country.
“My job is to unite the country and harness our energy for inclusive development. That is the job you gave me, and I will do it diligently,” he said.
The President announced the construction of 27,000 housing units for police officers under the Affordable Housing Programme.
He said the initiative aims to provide dignified accommodation and improve morale within the service.
He also revealed that the government has started reviewing police salaries and terms of service, with the first phase of salary increases already rolled out.
On education, Ruto said his administration had addressed the financial crisis facing public universities, saying stable institutions are key to nurturing learners’ potential.
“Education is the greatest equaliser,” he said.
In Embu and Tharaka-Nithi counties, Ruto inspected and launched a range of development projects, including:
- Kamburu Dam Water Supply Project worth KSh 789 million, expected to benefit 88,000 residents with water for domestic and irrigation use.
- Tuition complex at Tharaka University and the Gatunga Market (KSh 60 million).
- Chuka Modern Market (KSh 290 million), expected to host over 350 traders.
- Chuka Public Works Affordable Housing Project, with 385 units.
- 60 housing units for police officers at Chuka Police Station.
- Runyenjes Market and Huduma Digital Centre under construction.
- Last-mile electricity project in Embu Town (KSh 580 million) to connect 6,500 households.
- Embu Modern Market, which will accommodate 3,000 traders upon completion.
The President also reiterated his administration’s commitment to eliminating cartels in the coffee sector to ensure farmers reap the full value of their produce.
He pledged to complete the accident-prone Nithi Bridge before 2027, citing road safety as a priority.
