The tension at the summit reflected broader discontent swelling across Kenya. Many citizens have criticized Ruto’s leadership as disconnected from ordinary people’s needs, pointing to the withdrawal of bursaries, neglect of essential services like healthcare and security, and failure to address unemployment, soaring inflation, and job insecurity. While Ruto’s administration has prioritized international diplomacy and partnerships, Kenyans question why foreign relations overshadow pressing domestic challenges
There was drama at the 5th Legislative Summit of the County Assemblies Forum (CAF), held at the Edge Convention Centre, where Members of the County Assemblies (MCAs) from all 47 counties gathered to tackle pressing issues affecting local governance. What began as a platform for constructive dialogue quickly spiralled into a storm of frustration when Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, faced boos and heckling from the MCAs as he tried to speak on behalf of President William Ruto, transforming the forum into a public outcry against Ruto’s leadership.
Mvurya, sent to represent the President, faced fierce opposition from the MCAs, who were angered by Ruto’s absence. Viewing the delegation of a minister as dismissive of their status and the urgency of their concerns, they refused to let Mvurya speak, drowning him out with loud boos and jeers. “We expected President Ruto to address us directly,” said Garissa Deputy Speaker, Mustaf Abdirashid Ahmed. “It is his leadership we need to hear from on the critical issues facing our counties—not a minister.” The uproar forced Mvurya to cut short his speech and leave the event by midday.
The MCAs’ grievances were wide-ranging and deeply felt. They demanded a Ward Development Fund to boost local growth, criticized the government’s withdrawal of bursaries for needy students, and raised concerns about pension entitlements. They also highlighted that inadequate security measures had led to the tragic deaths of several members due to violence or threats. “We are not asking for the moon,” said Stanley Karanja, Secretary-General of the Association of Members of County Assemblies and CAF official. “We want security, support for our vulnerable students, and resources for development. Only President Ruto can address these properly.” The MCAs vowed not to leave until Ruto personally responded.
The tension at the summit reflected broader discontent swelling across Kenya. Many citizens have criticized Ruto’s leadership as disconnected from ordinary people’s needs, pointing to the withdrawal of bursaries, neglect of essential services like healthcare and security, and failure to address unemployment, soaring inflation, and job insecurity. While Ruto’s administration has prioritized international diplomacy and partnerships, Kenyans question why foreign relations overshadow pressing domestic challenges.
Citizens have also expressed dissatisfaction with Ruto’s economic policies, arguing that his “hustler economy” promises have not delivered tangible benefits for the majority. As the cost of living rises, the public’s frustration grows, with many feeling sidelined by a government they helped elect. Back at the forum, this sentiment was palpable, with the MCAs’ refusal to accept a proxy underscoring a demand for direct accountability.
As the summit came to an abrupt end, it became clear that this unrest extended beyond the MCAs to mirror the sentiments of many Kenyans questioning the direction of Ruto’s leadership. With his administration’s first term underway, the pressure is mounting for the President to take a more proactive role in addressing the nation’s most urgent challenges, lest the growing dissatisfaction shape the narrative of his tenure.
