Ruto urges Kenyans to give him more time to rebuild the economy

President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to give him time to rebuild the country saying he will do everything humanly possible to fix the economy.

Ruto said he has put in place measures to ensure that there are increased job opportunities, more and better agricultural produce and improved health services.

Speaking at a Catholic Church function in Kitutu Chache, Kisii County yesterday afternoon, Ruto called on leaders to be truthful in their remarks.

"The greatest challenge we are facing as a country is dishonesty among our leaders. Let us tell our people the truth on how to manage our economy," said the President.

He said he had no power over the price of fuel. "Those who sell us oil have the last word on the prices of fuel. I am sure something is being done and the prices will be going down next month."

The President said he was keen on fertiliser subsidies and digital employment among the youth.

The Head of State cautioned people he called cartels in the health sector and whom he accused of sabotaging his Universal Health Coverage plan.

"We have had corruption in the health sector for way too long. Some have been benefiting from NHIF yet they didn't deserve such. We have had some private hospitals that fake claims amounting to millions," said Ruto.

He added: "I took an oath to protect Kenyans. I will not allow some individuals to derail my development plan. I am not the kind of person to threaten. I was given a sword when I took oath of office and I don't use it to cut vegetables but to deal with the corrupt."

According to the President, the same individuals filed a court case to stop the Affordable Housing Scheme.

"These individuals have tried to bring me down but they will not succeed. I am more than prepared to deal with them," said the president.

He called on Kisii leaders to work as a team. "I know some of them are working through the political journey but that doesn't mean we keep quarreling."

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua called on Kisii leaders to remain consistent in politics.

"The community should not be left behind in the country's development agenda. We are ready to support the Abagusii Community, let your leaders speak in one voice," said Gachagua.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati and his Nyamira counterpart Amos Nyaribo said they will work with the National Government towards the delivery of their development projects.

Arati said he will work with the National Government to spearhead development plans in the area.

"We are not at war with anyone, we will work as a team and ensure that we have achieved all that we have planned for," said the governor.

National Assembly Majority Chief Whip Slyvanous Osoro said the community has made strides and all they need is the implementation of planned development projects.

"Let us stop exposing our internal issues to the world. We can sit and dialogue as leaders and avoid negative public utterances," said the lawmaker.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka said they will continue to criticize the Government. "My role is oversight, there is no mistake in criticizing those in power," he argued.

"Everyone wants Kisii leaders to work as a team. Let us embrace unity and be able to implement all development projects," said Onyonka.

MP Anthony Kibagendi thanked the Kenya Kwanza Government for the appointments the region got. "We are requesting for extension of tarmacked roads. Infrastructure in several schools in this area needs a facelift," said the lawmaker.