As political tensions rise in the Mt. Kenya region, leaders affiliated with the Kenya Kwanza coalition have adopted a new strategy to engage resid
As political tensions rise in the Mt. Kenya region, leaders affiliated with the Kenya Kwanza coalition have adopted a new strategy to engage residents through the implementation of development projects.
For the past two weeks, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has led a series of tours across the region, delivering a clear message: the focus is on revitalizing development efforts. During a recent visit to Keini Constituency, Kindiki emphasized the importance of resuming stalled projects and initiating new ones to ensure the region is not left behind.
“Our mission is straightforward: we must ensure development in this region,” Kindiki stated. “It’s vital that we revive all halted projects and start new ones. The government is currently financially stable, and we are committed to development for everyone.”
Kindiki urged local leaders to avoid “immature politics” at this critical juncture, warning that such distractions could harm the community. “We must not waste time on petty issues. When the time for politics comes, we will engage, but for now, our focus is on development,” he added.
This renewed emphasis on development comes in response to waning support for President William Ruto’s administration, particularly following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Many residents expressed their discontent by ousting local MPs, making it challenging for them to conduct business at the constituency level for over three months.
Despite the political turmoil, leaders have begun to return, accompanying Kindiki on development launches throughout various constituencies. In Kieni, Kindiki recently inaugurated the construction of the Endarasha-Watuka road, which had been stalled since 2019, and initiated electricity provision for over 52 families.
Area MP Njoroge Wainaina highlighted additional developments, including a Ksh 600 million hospital set to be built in Kiawara village, alongside affordable housing units. “Our priority is to bring development to our people. This area has lacked a hospital since independence, forcing residents to travel long distances for medical services. We are committed to advancing development over politics,” Wainaina stated.
Sources close to the situation suggest that after reviving these projects, Kindiki and his team plan to facilitate the return of President Ruto to the region, where he is expected to announce further initiatives. “Our goal is to re-establish the president’s presence in the region through development. This will counter the opposition’s narrative that he has lost support after Gachagua’s impeachment,” a source revealed.
However, this strategy will face challenges, particularly with Gachagua declaring he will provide political direction for the region over the weekend. Since his ouster, Gachagua has been holding meetings with political leaders at his rural home in Wamungoro village, creating a climate of political tension.
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