President Ruto: We Will Deal With Violence at Whatever Cost

President William Ruto has promised to take strong action against any violence and property destruction, saying that the government will not be intimidated into allowing anarchy to disrupt the country’s stability. 

During a ceremony at Konza Techno City in Machakos County on Thursday where he bestowed a charter to the Open University of Kenya, Ruto made a pledge to use all resources available to restore peace and order. His remarks come as the country awaits the outcome of the second round of bipartisan talks between the Azimio One Kenya and Kenya Kwanza Alliance. Ruto defended his administration’s fiscal policies and criticised dissenting voices which have accused the policies as oppressive and punitive.

“I have said that it will never happen again in Kenya. Violence, destruction of property and inciting Kenyans against one another will not be allowed,” Dr Ruto said 

Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi pledged to collaborate with Kenya Kwanza’s administration to expedite development in Ukambani’s wealthiest county. The DG reiterated that violent protests would not be tolerated as they do not serve the interests of local residents.

According to Mwangangi, the destruction of the Nairobi Expressway in Mlolongo caused a loss of Sh700 million which could have been used to build a level 5 hospital. Mwangangi advised Ruto to uphold democracy while negotiating with the opposition. Although dialogue is an option, the DG insists that the principles of democracy must not be compromised, and the winner of the election should be entitled to enjoy their victory. 

Instead of engaging in political power struggles, Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr advised the President to prioritize the completion of development projects one of which includes the tarmacking of the Emali-Ukia road. This crucial road upgrade will create a link between the lower Eastern region and Northern frontier counties.