Kenya: Ruto clashes with Uhuru Kenyatta amid development tour

President William Ruto has intensified his political confrontation with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of sabotaging the current administration and failing to honor a previous power-sharing agreement. During a development tour in the Nyanza region, Ruto claimed Kenyatta has transitioned from a statesman to a “rebel leader” by allegedly funding opposition activities. In response to recent political jibes, Kenyatta addressed a funeral in Murang’a, where he lightheartedly referred to himself as “Sponyo”—a nickname used by Ruto—while noting that he has begun using prepared speeches to avoid being misinterpreted by the media.

Parallel to these political tensions, President Ruto has focused on a multi-billion-shilling development agenda in counties including Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay. The government has pledged between Sh600 billion and Sh700 billion for infrastructure, including roads, affordable housing, water sanitation, and electricity projects.

On the economic front, Ruto has urged commercial banks to reduce lending rates, which currently average approximately 14.39 per cent. He emphasized that following recent economic stabilization and a reduction in the Central Bank Rate to 8.75 per cent, the benefits of lower borrowing costs must reach businesses, farmers, and entrepreneurs to drive job creation and production.