Ruto urges Kenyans to reject leaders fueling ethnic divisions, violence

President William Ruto has accused the opposition of inciting young people to cause violence and ethnic tension instead of offering real solutions to challenges facing Kenyans.

Speaking on Saturday during the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme in Elgeyo-Marakwet County, the Head of State condemned what he termed as reckless political incitement that has led to violence, destruction of property, and threats to national unity.

“Religious leaders and political leaders must stop inciting young people of our nation into situations where violence, lawlessness, destruction of property, and loss of life become the order of the day,” said President Ruto.

“We must step back as a nation and ask ourselves, is this really what we want to do?”

The President noted that the recent unrest witnessed in parts of the country was not a genuine call for change but a politically manufactured crisis aimed at salvaging dying political careers.

Ruto added that he was ready to be held accountable over the promises he made but warned that political shouting without ideas will not help Kenyans.

“The Opposition must present their development agenda to Kenyans rather than stirring lawlessness, hate and tribalism. We will stand firm against those selfish leaders who exploit our youth to rescue their dwindling political careers,” he said.

“I want to challenge my competitors. Apart from singing Kasongo and chanting ‘Ruto must go,’ what is your agenda?” he added.

The head of state  affirmed that the government will act decisively to maintain law and order.

“Enough is enough. Kenya will be safe and the property of Kenyans will be safe. Askari watafanya kazi yao kwa sababu wakona training ya kutosha na mandate ya Katiba kuhakikisha wale wakora wameharibu mali ya wananchi, they must answer,” Ruto said.

Earlier, the President commissioned the Etio Dam in Kapteren, Keiyo North Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The first phase of the project will bring over 2,500 acres under irrigation, with a storage capacity of 160 million litres.

“This project will transform the lives of more than 8,000 households in Elgeyo-Marakwet County,” he said.

The President noted that the project will boost the production of passion fruits, avocado, cabbages, kales and potatoes, thus creating jobs and increasing household incomes.

He also launched construction works for the Tirwane-Tirone Irrigation Development Project in Keiyo South, a project that will put over 1,000 acres under irrigation and benefit more than 25,000 households in the region.

“It will also enhance our food security and create wealth through the cultivation of high value crops like pyrethrum that will generate over Ksh650 million a year to spur economic growth,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Ruto said the government is continuously investing in modern technology in education and training to enable young people to sharpen and productively use their digital skills to work, learn, and do business.

“It is our commitment to expand opportunities for our youth because we appreciate their value in driving our country’s transformation,” President Ruto said.