‘Opposition has nothing to offer', CS Ruku slams Kalonzo as he woos Ukambani to gov't

Speaking at Mutwangombe Market in Mwingi Central during a Special Programmes outreach event, Ruku accused Kalonzo of subjecting the Kamba community to what he termed as divisive and partisan politics that had failed to spur meaningful development in the region.

The CS urged residents to reject opposition politics and instead work closely with the government, arguing that cooperation with the national administration was key to accelerating development projects and improving livelihoods.

“The politics of opposition have nothing beneficial to offer wananchi. Communities that work with the government stand a better chance of benefiting from national development projects and government programmes,” said Ruku.

Ruku said President William Ruto has demonstrated inclusive leadership by implementing development projects across the country without discrimination based on political affiliation or ethnicity.

He noted that the Kenya Kwanza administration has continued to roll out transformative projects in the Ukambani region, including infrastructure development, water projects and social support programmes aimed at uplifting residents.

The CS criticised Kalonzo’s lengthy political career, saying that despite having served in senior government positions for decades, the Wiper leader had little tangible development to show for the Kamba community.

“The time has come for the people of Ukambani to reject divisive politics and instead support leaders focused on development and economic empowerment,” he added.

Ruku also took issue with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of pretending to champion the interests of the Kamba community despite allegedly failing to ensure the region received adequate development during his tenure in government.

At the same time, the CS defended the Social Health Authority (SHA), dismissing criticism from opposition leaders as misleading and politically motivated.

He accused Kalonzo and other opposition figures of spreading falsehoods about the health programme, maintaining that SHA was functioning effectively and helping Kenyans access healthcare services across the country.

“These opposition leaders are lying to wananchi about SHA. The programme is working and helping many Kenyans access healthcare services," he stated. 

"Even Kalonzo himself is a beneficiary of SHA together with his family because the government has paid his premiums. He should stop misleading the Kamba community on matters concerning SHA."

Ruku further warned residents against what he described as “empty political narratives” aimed at misleading wananchi ahead of future elections.

He maintained that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains committed to serving all Kenyans equally regardless of political affiliation or region.

“President Ruto’s administration will continue prioritising development projects aimed at improving livelihoods, creating opportunities for the youth and strengthening social support programmes across the country,” he said.

The CS called on the Kamba community to rally behind the government’s development agenda, saying unity and cooperation with the national administration would help accelerate economic growth and improve living standards across Ukambani.

Former Mwingi Central MP Joe Mutambu, who accompanied the CS during the event, also criticised Kalonzo, accusing him of selfish leadership and intolerance towards leaders working with the government for the benefit of residents.

Mutambu defended his decision to collaborate with President Ruto’s administration, saying his efforts were geared towards lobbying for development projects and employment opportunities for residents of Mwingi Central and Kitui County.

“When Kalonzo’s father died, he went to the then-President seeking help, which he received. I am also working with the President for the benefit of the people of Kitui at large,” said Mutambu.

He urged Ukambani residents to support the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the government had demonstrated willingness to improve infrastructure and development in the region.

“I wonder why people keep pushing to have their children employed by the government led by President William Ruto, yet it becomes a problem when I work with him. When opposition leaders led by Kalonzo Musyoka work with the government, it is considered acceptable, but when Mutambu works with the government, I am labelled a betrayer of the community. That shows they are not genuine,” he added.