President William Ruto has defended the working arrangement between the United Democratic Alliance and the Orange Democratic Movement, saying the partnership is key to accelerating development and maintaining national unity.
Speaking on the second day of his development tour of Kisii and Nyamira counties, the President said the broad-based government framework is driving transformation across the country.
“We will continue uniting the country and preaching peace under the broad-based arrangement,” he said.
Ruto accused opposition leaders of threatening instability ahead of the next election, warning that the country’s future would not be determined by a few individuals.
“We cannot allow a few people to destroy our country. Our destiny will be determined by 60 million of us and not two or three people,” he said, adding that his opponents lack a clear agenda.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki echoed the President’s remarks, saying a few individuals would not be allowed to incite chaos.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati backed the partnership, saying cooperation between UDA and ODM had accelerated development.
“If there is a productive engagement with the government, it is this one,” Arati said, adding that he would continue working with the national government.
In Nyamira, the President announced that a Standard Gauge Railway station will be constructed at Ikonge at a cost of KSh300 million, dismissing claims the county had been excluded from the Naivasha–Kisumu extension.
“Be ready to take advantage of this important facility,” he said, noting it would boost transport of produce such as tea, bananas and macadamia.
The President also presided over the laying of the foundation stone for Nyamira University College, announcing an additional KSh300 million on top of the earlier allocation of KSh200 million, as well as a further KSh300 million for student hostels.
He thanked North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko for facilitating land for the project and pledged additional funding for relocation of a secondary school.
Ruto further announced plans to construct a KSh1 billion hospital in Nyamira and set aside KSh950 million for a new stadium, urging local leaders to identify suitable land.
Governor Amos Nyaribo welcomed the projects, saying they would transform the region.
In Kisii County, the President launched the construction of the Bobaracho–Ting’a road and access roads to Gianchore Tea Factory, aimed at easing transport challenges for farmers.
He also laid the foundation stone for Kegogi Modern Market, part of a wider plan to construct 22 markets in the county at a cost of KSh2.5 billion.
The President said his administration had prioritised development, citing the employment of 100,000 teachers, construction of classrooms and reforms in university funding, alongside stabilising key economic indicators.
He added that KSh300 million had been allocated for last-mile electricity connectivity in the region, targeting 20,000 additional households.
The President said his tour is focused on unlocking stalled projects and expanding infrastructure, insisting that development—not politics—remains his administration’s priority.
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