Ruto admits unpopularity, says projects will bear fruit in future

President William Ruto has admitted that his administration is unpopular among many Kenyans, attributing the discontent to the government’s push to implement far-reaching reforms, including the Social Health Authority (SHA).

Speaking during a joint parliamentary group meeting between ODM and UDA in Karen, Nairobi, Ruto said that despite resistance, the reforms will eventually transform the country.

“I can assure you, even if Raila Odinga were president today, he would be implementing SHA, housing, reforms in education, and agriculture. He would face the same difficulties I am facing now,” Ruto said.

The President urged Kenyans to give his administration time to deliver on the Kenya Kwanza manifesto, noting that entrenched corruption has slowed down reforms. 

He added that the projects, some delayed for more than 30 years, could have propelled Kenya to global economic heights had they been implemented earlier.

“Most of you don’t like the truth. We cannot change the country otherwise. That is why I dare say, let us stop the extortion,” he added.

Ruto acknowledged that his popularity would be higher if he had avoided controversial reforms, but insisted that they were necessary for the country’s future.

“The difficulties I face today are self-imposed. If I had not implemented the new funding model or housing, I would be very popular, but the country would gain nothing,” he said.

At the same forum, Ruto accused corrupt legislators of tainting the country’s image, alleging that Sh10 million exchanged hands during the passage of the anti-money laundering Bill. He warned that those involved will be prosecuted.

“Do you, for example, know that a few members of your committee collected Sh10 million so that you don’t pass that law on anti-money laundering? Did you get the money?” he posed.

The Head of State further questioned the role of Welfare Chairmen in parliamentary committees, claiming they have been turned into extortionists for MPs.