ELECTION WATCH

Mt Kenya Taking Development for Granted, Being Unfair to Ruto – MP Kuria Kimani

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Molo MP Kimani Kuria
Molo MP Kimani Kuria
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Molo MP Kuria Kimani has called for mutual respect, unity and inclusivity ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging residents of Central Kenya to appreciate both development gains across the country and the contributions of Kikuyus living outside the region.

Speaking during the Keera Show on Inooro FM, Kimani said Central Kenya’s long history of being close to government had shaped attitudes that sometimes undervalue progress made elsewhere.

“I think Central has undergone a lot of development and has been in government for a long time, to the point of taking some things for granted. People from Central are so accustomed to development that they sometimes feel proud compared to those from other regions,” he said.

The legislator urged leaders and residents from the Mt Kenya region to reflect more objectively on the current administration’s record, arguing that the region continues to enjoy significant representation and development.

“The Mt Kenya region is so accustomed to development that it has begun to take it for granted. As a region, we are being unfair to President Ruto. In fact, Mt Kenya currently has more Cabinet Secretaries than it did during Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime,” Kimani said.

He noted that in previous administrations, Kikuyus living outside Central Kenya — particularly in Nakuru County — were largely excluded from top government positions. While leaders such as Mutahi Kagwe, Cecil Kariuki, Peter Munya and Mwangi Kiunjuri served in Cabinet roles over the years, Nakuru County itself had no Cabinet representation. Under President William Ruto’s administration, he said, the county has had two Cabinet ministers, which he described as a significant step towards inclusivity.

Kimani added that much of the political criticism facing the government was coming from what he termed “privileged Kikuyus,” insisting that the current administration has demonstrated goodwill towards the community through appointments and development initiatives countrywide.

On economic policy, the MP defended the government’s privatisation agenda, citing the success of companies such as Safaricom and Kenya Airways. He said privatisation is anchored in law and is aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and returns to the State.

He dismissed claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that the Kenya Pipeline Company had already been sold, clarifying that the government is planning a Pipeline Initial Public Offer (IPO).

“The idea is to allow every Kenyan to own a stake, just like Safaricom. This will make the pipeline more efficient, increase dividends to the government and ensure public participation,” he said, adding that proceeds from the IPO would fund development projects without increasing taxes or excessive borrowing.

Kimani also cited recent education financing as evidence of improved governance and planning under the current administration.

“For the first time, school capitation funds were released before schools reopened. By January 1, free day secondary schools had received KSh 26.8 billion, free primary schools received KSh 3.7 billion, and free day junior schools got KSh 14.5 billion, bringing the total funds released to schools to KSh 44.24 billion,” he said.

The MP said the measures reflected a broader government strategy focused on inclusive development, fiscal responsibility and equitable distribution of resources as the country prepares for the 2027 elections.

Read: Inside Ruto’s Basket of Goodies For Mt Kenya

>>> Gachagua Unveils Plan for New Party to Unite Mt Kenya and Challenge Ruto in 2027

Written by
BT Reporter

editor [at] businesstoday.co.ke

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