Kenya Kwanza leaders defend DP Kindiki-led empowerment drive amid backlash

Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration have come out strongly in defence of Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki’s ongoing empowerment programme, dismissing criticism from the opposition as baseless and politically motivated.

Speaking during a relief food distribution exercise in Chemolingot and Kolowa, Tiaty Constituency in Baringo County, Public Service, Human Capital Development, and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku lashed out at Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing him of engaging in “cheap politics” and lacking a substantive development agenda.

CS Ruku, who led the government team in the relief effort, said the empowerment programme spearheaded by the Deputy President was a well-thought-out initiative aimed at uplifting communities and enhancing government-citizen engagement.

He emphasized that the programme had rattled some opposition leaders who, according to him, had failed to deliver when in power.

“After years in leadership, including serving as Vice President, you have little to show. Now that Kenyans are witnessing results from this empowerment initiative, some are getting uncomfortable. The people can now see the difference between leadership that works and rhetoric,” said Ruku.

He urged opposition leaders to present viable policies instead of resorting to propaganda. According to him, the Kenya Kwanza government had demonstrated solid progress on the economic front, citing reduced inflation, a strengthened shilling, improved investor confidence, and a drop in the Central Bank lending rate.

“You cannot argue with numbers. Inflation has fallen from 9.8% to 3.8%, the Kenyan shilling has strengthened from Ksh.169 to Ksh.129 against the dollar, and lending rates have dropped to 9.8%. That’s real progress,” he noted.

Ruku also credited President William Ruto’s leadership with restoring security and enabling government access to previously volatile regions like Tiaty.

“Just a few years ago, parts of Baringo were no-go zones. Today, a Cabinet Secretary can visit and engage residents directly thanks to improved security,” he said.

The CS highlighted the government's broader plan to decentralize services through the expansion of Huduma Centres to ensure citizens access essential documents and services without traveling long distances.

He was joined by Tiaty MP Kamket Kassait, Kacheliba MP Titus Lotee, and Baringo Woman Representative Sergen Jematia, who all defended the Kenya Kwanza empowerment efforts.

The leaders pointed to notable government achievements in security, infrastructure, and youth empowerment as evidence of effective governance.

In a strong show of support for President Ruto, they expressed confidence in his re-election, pledging to continue backing his administration.

The visit was part of a wider relief initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable households in drought-affected areas.

CS Ruku said the programme aligns with President Ruto’s directive that no Kenyan should die of hunger and every citizen must feel safe and supported by the government.

“This is not a one-off distribution,” Ruku said. “We are implementing a sustained, people-centered approach under the Huduma Smart Serikalini framework, bringing services and support closer to the people.”

He stressed the importance of listening to community voices, promising to shape future policy from the grassroots level upwards.

On youth empowerment, Ruku reiterated on the ambitious plan to double the National Youth Service (NYS) intake from 20,000 to 40,000 in 2026, with a long-term target of 100,000 annually.

He said the programme will equip young people with skills in construction, agriculture, ICT, and other emerging sectors.

Other initiatives include diaspora job placements, the Affordable Housing Programme creating thousands of jobs, and an expanded government internship programme for graduates.

“The youth are the engine of this economy. We are investing in you. Don’t let yourselves be misused by politicians seeking chaos. Instead, take advantage of the opportunities available,” he urged.

In his closing remarks, Ruku appealed for peace and unity across the country, stating that meaningful development could only be achieved through harmony and shared purpose.

“Development follows peace. Let’s stay united and focused, this government is listening and delivering,” he said.