President William Ruto has set the stage for a pivotal week-long tour of the Mt Kenya region, focusing on launching and inspecting key development projects while addressing growing political discontent in the region. The visit is seen as a decisive move to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to fulfilling pre-election promises amid shifting political alliances.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, entrusted with spearheading the mobilisation drive, has been actively engaging governors and local leaders to ensure a receptive environment and pinpoint priority projects. Kindiki’s efforts come as murmurs of disillusionment grow among Mt Kenya residents, who overwhelmingly supported Ruto in the 2022 elections but feel sidelined from national development.
Speaking on the President’s planned tour, Kindiki emphasised the visit’s developmental focus: “The President will be here in Mt Kenya next week to open markets, oversee electrification programmes, and inspect ongoing projects. This is about development, not politics.”
The President’s visit, his first since the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua last October, aims to assure the region of his continued commitment. Gachagua’s removal triggered a wave of discontent, as he was a prominent figure in the region.
In a bid to solidify regional support, Ruto recently reshuffled his cabinet, replacing Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi with Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku. The appointment was seen as a political move to appease the region and reinforce support from the Democratic Party, Muturi’s former party.
Intensive Preparations Underway Over recent weeks, Ruto has hosted multiple strategy meetings at State House, Nairobi, with Mt Kenya leaders. Notably absent were Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, a close ally of Gachagua, and Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, who sent an apology due to maternity leave.
Kindiki’s groundwork has included inspecting projects like the Sh258 million Kanyuambora Irrigation Project and the Gikoe ESP Market in Mathioya, which he announced would be ready in five weeks. He stressed the importance of national unity, urging residents to avoid divisive politics.
Detailed Itinerary for the Presidential Tour The President’s itinerary features stops across multiple counties, each focused on development initiatives:
- Tuesday: Laikipia County to commission electrification projects in Kieni.
- Wednesday: Meru County to commission Nkuene sub-station and launch projects.
- Thursday: Nyandarua County in the morning, Murang’a County in the afternoon.
- Friday: Tharaka Nithi to commission electrification projects and Embu County to launch AFD/EU/EIB projects.
- Saturday: Nyeri County to flag off AFD/EU/EIB projects, followed by a tour of Kiambu County.
The tour underscores Ruto’s intent to distance himself from political feuds and deliver tangible benefits to Mt Kenya. Deputy President Kindiki also reassured the public that the government is committed to securing the release of Margaret Nduta, a Kenyan on death row in Vietnam.
As Ruto seeks to solidify his support base, the success of this tour could shape his administration’s relationship with the region and set the tone for future engagements.
