Stay in government to benefit from development projects, Ruku tells Mbeere residents

Speaking during a public engagement at Kavengero in Mbeere North, CS Ruku questioned why Muturi and Kivuti, both of whom held senior positions in government, are now attempting to "mislead the community" and push it into what he termed as political isolation.

“You worked with the government for years, JB Muturi as a magistrate, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly for 10 years, and even Attorney General. Kivuti also served as a senator. Why now mislead the people of Mbeere into opposing the very government that can help them?” Ruku posed, addressing a large crowd.

He challenged the two to stop presenting aspirants with weak academic and leadership credentials, saying that if they were genuinely committed to helping the community, they would encourage well-educated individuals capable of being appointed to powerful House committees and lobbying effectively for development resources.

“If they truly care about Mbeere, let them bring their own sons who are educated, people who can walk into Parliament, get committee placements, and fight for development. Leadership is not just about popularity; it’s about the capacity to deliver,” Ruku said.

However, the Cabinet Secretary was quick to clarify that the people of Mbeere have no personal issues with Muturi or Kivuti. He expressed deep respect for their past contributions but urged them not to drag personal grievances into the political space.

“JB, I respect you so much. But your differences with the President should not be settled at the expense of the Mbeere community,” he said.

Ruku warned against a return to clan-based and divisive politics, which he said belong to the past. He accused the two leaders of reviving outdated political tactics aimed at splintering the community rather than uniting it around a shared development agenda.

“Those pushing clan politics in Mbeere North have no space. That kind of politics is behind us because what our people need now is unity and development,” he declared.

Ruku highlighted several ongoing and upcoming development projects in Mbeere North as proof of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment. These include the planned tarmacking of the Kathangeri–Kavengero–Kanyuambora road, which he described as a game-changer for local connectivity, trade, and transport.

He also noted that the tarmacking of the Kanyuambora–Kamumu–Soko–Nthawa road was in progress, lauding President William Ruto for prioritising infrastructure in the region. “This is what development looks like. These roads will open markets, link villages, and uplift lives,” he noted.

Additionally, Ruku revealed that the funds for completing the Kanyuambora irrigation project will be available, ensuring the project is completed before December, with disbursement expected next week. He said the initiative will transform agriculture in the area, enhance food security, and economically empower hundreds of households.

“Our people depend on farming. Once the irrigation project starts, we shall stop talking about hunger. That is the kind of empowerment we’re bringing to Mbeere North,” he added.

Ruku urged locals to stay firmly behind President Ruto’s administration, warning against being misled by leaders who want to alienate the region from national development.

“We are in government, and that’s where we must stay. Anyone telling you to walk away from that is playing politics with your future,” he cautioned.

He called for unity among leaders and the public, saying only a united community can attract meaningful development.

“Politics of division and clanism will not build a single road or feed a single family. Mbeere understands one language, development,” he said.