Ruto to critics: Ksh.40 billion projects lined up for Meru, what is Ksh.80 million State lodge?

Speaking at Statehouse Nairobi on Monday, the Head of State said that the government has earmarked several development projects valued at approximately Ksh.40 billion in the region, which he believes should be the main area of focus rather than a Ksh.80 million state lodge.

“We are building a state lodge in Meru for 80 million; people are asking me whether that is a priority. I am telling them I have a program of close to 40 billion shillings in Meru,” said Ruto. 

“We have a program on affordable housing, a program on markets, a program on the roads; we are building bridges, we are building markets. So how is 80 million so important compared to the 40 billion we are working on the development of that region?” he paused. 

President Ruto had in 2025 announced plans to build a State Lodge in Meru, which he claimed to be part of his wider plan to elevate the town to city status.

In June 2026, a case was filed before the Environment and Land Court seeking to stop any planned developments within Imenti Forest, citing threats from government-proposed projects including an airstrip, golf course and a State Lodge.

However, according to media reports, aerial footage of Imenti forest has revealed that work has already commenced on the project site despite an existing court order blocking the construction pending the determination of a petition challenging it. 

Several leaders, including Former Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Former Interior CS Fred Matiang'i are part of a team that has opposed the construction of the State Lodge, also questioning the government’s priorities.