Ruto asks for support for 2022 bid, says he has Coast at heart

Deputy President William Ruto addressing wananchi during the women empowerment programme at Rabai, Kilifi County. [DPPS]

Leaders from Coast say they will oppose the review of the Constitution if it would burden Kenyans.

In a tour of the Coast region yesterday, Deputy President William Ruto asked residents to back his political journey, saying he was always ready to support the region’s development agenda.

While addressing a fundraiser for boda boda operators and women groups at Mtwapa, Ruto criticised Coast voters for always inviting him to conduct fundraisers yet they don’t support him. “I am always ready to support you when you call upon me to do so. But you should also return the favour and support us,” he said.

Ruto was accompanied by MPs Aisha Jumwa (Malindi), Paul Katana (Kaloleni), Badi Twalib (Jomvu), Ali Wario (Garsen), Khatib Mwashetani (Lunga Lunga), Athman Shariff (Lamu East) and Nominated legislator Christine Zawadi.

The tour took place even as the country awaits a possible national referendum amid heated exchanges on the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) and Punguza Mizigo Bill.

Ms Jumwa said Kenya’s financial status would not allow it to fund a constitutional review. 

“We would not respond to a call that is for reviving the political fortunes of some leaders,” she said. 

The Malindi lawmaker said Kenya had pressing issues and its resources should be channeled to healthcare, infrastructure, education, agriculture and security. 

Twalib said the country was being put into an electioneering mood, barely two years after the polls were held. 

“As leaders, ours is to work for the people. If there is need to amend the Constitution, then it is the people to decide,” said Mr Twalib.