Deputy President Ruto dismisses Opposition leader Raila Odinga over referendum

Deputy President William Ruto joins traditional dancers during a tour of Turkana County where he launched development projects [photo courtesy]

Deputy President William Ruto has criticised former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on his latest promise for change accusing him of pushing a personal agenda.

Dr Ruto said constitutional changes should benefit Kenyans and not just the political class.

He said Kenyans want changes that will transform their lives and not people seeking ‘political glory’. The DP spoke a day after Raila asked the country to brace for major political changes after the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) hands its report in October.

But speaking at Lokichar stadium as he began a three-day development tour of the area, the DP asked Raila to focus his energies and time on activities that will improve the lives of Kenyans.

“The changes the people of Kenya are expecting are those in education, roads, connection of electricity, water and not in the fortunes of politicians,” said Ruto. The DP said Kenya does not belong to politicians alone but the millions who want issues affecting them addressed.

“This is why we are working together as leaders irrespective of our political affiliations in addressing challenges facing Kenyans,” said Dr Ruto. The Deputy President, at the same time, said the government would transform arid and semi arid areas, Turkana included, into an economic powerhouse.

“We have negotiated with the World Bank to initiate projects in provision of water, agriculture, health and education to a tune of Sh100 billion,” said Dr Ruto.

The DP laid a foundation stone for the construction of the first Turkana Teachers Training College. He also opened the Turkana South Constituency Development Fund office. Present at the event were Governor Josephat Nanok and Turkana South MP James Lomenen. Nanok said those calling for constitutional changes should be clear on what they want. “Those who want change in the Constitution should come out clear. Any changes should benefit Kenyans and not a few,” said Mr Nanok.

He said the governors from Rift Valley were united and will speak in one voice. “Kenyans are looking up to Rift Valley to give them direction ahead of 2022. This is why as governors we are united to have a strong bargaining power.”  [Allan Mungai & DPPS]