- President Ruto says his Mt Kenya visits are for development, not politics.
- Defends IG Douglas Kanja’s presence during his tours.
- Emphasizes that working with police is part of national development.
- Questions why the IG is being singled out while other officers also attend.
- LSK demands the IG to apologise or resign over political bias claims.
President William Ruto has addressed growing concerns over his recent engagements in the Mt Kenya region, stating clearly that his visits are purely focused on development and not political campaigning. Speaking in Tharaka Nithi on Friday, April 4, the Head of State said the tours are part of his constitutional duty to interact with citizens and oversee government projects.
“For the comfort of those who may be confused or wondering, there is no campaign in Kenya,” he said. “We are doing what the people of Kenya asked us to do.”
Defending the Role of IG Kanja
Ruto came to the defense of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, whose presence during the tours has sparked heated public and civil society criticism. He made it clear that working with the police is necessary for development and national coordination.
“IG Kanja, I want to say that we will continue to work with the men in uniform to ensure the security and development of our country,” Ruto stated.
Why Single Out the IG?
The President questioned the double standards being applied, wondering why IG Kanja is being targeted while other officers regularly attend such meetings without issue.
“I don’t know the difference. When I was in Nyeri, there were more than 300 officers present. Why are you singling out the IG?” he asked. “Even when he’s not there, others represent him. They don’t come for politics.”
LSK Demands Action
Despite Ruto’s explanation, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has weighed in, demanding that the Inspector General issue a public apology for allegedly engaging in politics-or resign from his position altogether.
The debate over the IG’s involvement continues to spark reactions, with some Kenyans calling for accountability, while others support the President’s stance that his work tours should not be misinterpreted as political campaigns.
