Ruto defends his record, says he has delivered on his promises

President William Ruto. [Elvis Ogina,Standard]

President William Ruto has told off his critics over claims that he has fallen short of his campaign promises.

Ruto told opposition leaders led by ODM National Chairperson John Mbadi that the journey for a better Kenya is on course. He outlined projects such as the Shimoni Fish Projects and subsidised fertiliser to farmers as his robust move to ensure food security in the country.

The lawmakers had faulted the Kenya Kwanza administration for failing to address the high cost of living and the introduction of exploitive taxes.

They said during his campaigns, Ruto rallied to fight for those aligned in the penury and distressed.

"I have very little faith in President Ruto's Cabinet. We must find solutions to the challenges facing Kenyans. Ruto needs to convince us his government is up to the task ahead of his address," Mbadi said.

Speaking during the State of the Nation Address in a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the Senate, the president said he will ensure every promise is executed.

The president said the efforts are underway to bring governance to life to significantly enhance the well-being of every individual and promote unity and development of the country.

"I have intended to live up to all the commitments set out and despite the enormous challenges and tremendous difficulties, we have made encouraging progress," he said.

Ruto said his leadership has done the heavy lifting to reinvigorate the economy under immense challenges.

"The journey of transforming Kenya for the present and future generations is fully underway," Ruto said.

"Its effects have started to bear fruit across many sectors from the grassroots to Nairobi," he added.

Drumming up for his ambitious Bottom Economic Plan, the president said his interventions have started to bear fruit despite numerous challenges.

The president said the transformation of the economy is not just urgent but also necessary, saying it is the responsibility of leaders to listen to Kenyans' wishes.

"Kenyans want to proceed in a new direction and demand a new conversation that puts ordinary Kenyans' interest at the front and centre," he said.

"I undertook to transform the economy, stop runaway unemployment, inequality and widespread poverty." [Aloys Michael]