Kenya Kwanza and ODM Leaders Praise Ruto's Development Record, Defend China Trip

Members of Parliament from both Kenya Kwanza and ODM coalitions have come out in strong support of President William Ruto’s administration, praising the head of state for his significant contributions to Kenya’s development agenda. The MPs highlighted the administration’s efforts in spurring economic growth, improving infrastructure, and promoting unity. They also defended the President's recent trip to China, emphasizing its importance in strengthening the country’s global partnerships and reducing reliance on traditional debt sources.

The leaders, including National Assembly Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro, Laikipia MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, and other political figures, spoke at a fundraising event for 65 women’s groups in Kapsaos, Turbo in Uasin Gishu County. The event, aimed at empowering women and providing financial support to grassroots initiatives, became a platform for defending President Ruto’s policies and actions that many feel are steering the nation in the right direction.

A Positive Development Record: Over Two Years of Achievements

Kiunjuri, who has been a vocal advocate for President Ruto's leadership, underscored the significant progress made in just two and a half years since the President took office. According to the Laikipia MP, the administration’s focus on infrastructure development has been particularly noteworthy. Roads, markets, and agricultural projects, which were once considered major bottlenecks to economic growth, are now being addressed systematically.

"It’s only been two and a half years, but we are already seeing tangible results. Roads are being built, markets are being improved, and our agricultural sector is gaining the much-needed attention it deserves," Kiunjuri said. "These are not just numbers on a paper. These are real impacts on the ground—improvements that are creating jobs and boosting the economy."

Kiunjuri added that the President's government has made concerted efforts to address food security, which is one of Kenya’s most pressing challenges. The government’s focus on food production, as well as providing farmers with the necessary tools and infrastructure, is expected to reduce Kenya’s dependency on food imports, ultimately strengthening the country’s agricultural resilience.

"Food security is at the heart of this administration’s agenda. By improving agricultural productivity and providing farmers with the necessary resources, we are building a stronger, more self-reliant economy," Kiunjuri remarked.

Defending President Ruto's Trip to China: Seeking Sustainable Economic Partnerships

One of the more contentious issues surrounding President Ruto’s leadership has been his recent trip to China. Critics have raised concerns about the growing dependency on foreign loans, particularly from China, and the potential impact this could have on Kenya’s debt levels. However, Osoro, the National Assembly Chief Whip, defended the President’s visit, emphasizing that it was part of a broader strategy to secure long-term economic partnerships that will drive Kenya’s growth.

"The President is looking beyond traditional sources of funding. He’s working to secure partners who can help Kenya diversify its sources of investment and reduce its reliance on loans that place too much strain on our national budget," Osoro explained. "This is not about debt. It’s about finding sustainable ways to grow the economy and create jobs for the people of Kenya."

Osoro further pointed out that Kenya’s long history of borrowing from foreign countries, especially in the form of debt from international financial institutions, has often resulted in economic challenges. In his view, Ruto’s diplomatic engagement with countries like China is essential to opening up new avenues for collaboration, particularly in the infrastructure and technology sectors. He also acknowledged that China's involvement in Kenya’s infrastructure projects, such as roads and railways, has been crucial in the country’s development over the past decade.

"China has been a key partner in helping Kenya develop its infrastructure. We cannot ignore the progress we’ve made in sectors like transportation, where projects funded by China have significantly improved mobility within our country," Osoro said.

Furthermore, Osoro pointed out that Kenya has a strategic interest in strengthening economic ties with global partners beyond its immediate region. As the global economy evolves, he believes that diversifying partnerships is crucial to mitigating risks and ensuring that Kenya remains competitive on the global stage.

A Call for National Unity: Moving Beyond Tribal Politics

At the fundraiser, Farouk Kibet, President Ruto’s aide, also took the opportunity to address the ongoing challenges of political fragmentation and tribalism in Kenya. He reiterated the importance of unity in the country, stressing that tribal-based politics has no place in Kenya’s current political landscape.

"At this critical juncture in our nation’s development, we must unite as one. Tribalism and divisive politics have no place in the Kenya we are building today," Kibet said. "Our future must be built on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to the common good. The President has consistently called for national cohesion, and this is something we must all work towards."

Kibet’s comments reflect ongoing efforts by the President’s administration to foster inclusivity and bridge the deep political and ethnic divides that have plagued Kenya for decades. Although Kenya’s 2022 general election was largely peaceful, it left significant divisions between political parties, with many voters remaining loyal to ethnic-based allegiances. For Kibet, these divisions are counterproductive to the progress Kenya needs to make, particularly in advancing its development goals.

"We are a diverse nation, and that diversity should be celebrated, not weaponized. Our strength lies in our ability to work together, regardless of our ethnic backgrounds or political affiliations," Kibet added.

The call for national unity comes at a time when political parties and leaders from across the country continue to grapple with the challenges of post-election unity. As the country seeks to build a stable and inclusive democracy, the importance of cooperation among all sectors of society cannot be overstated.

A Vision for the Future: Building on the Foundations Laid So Far

The MPs present at the Kapsaos event were unanimous in their optimism for the future of Kenya, given the strides that have been made in infrastructure, economic growth, and national unity. Kiunjuri noted that while there is still much work to be done, the foundation laid by the current administration offers a hopeful outlook.

"We are just getting started. President Ruto’s vision for Kenya is clear, and it is one that prioritizes sustainable development, job creation, and a thriving economy," Kiunjuri concluded. "As a nation, we must continue to work together to turn this vision into reality."

With strong bipartisan support from both Kenya Kwanza and ODM leaders, it appears that President Ruto’s administration will continue to push forward with its development agenda. As the government works to address key issues such as unemployment, food security, and infrastructure, the hope is that Kenya will emerge stronger and more resilient in the years to come.

"We are building a future where every Kenyan, regardless of their background or political affiliation, can enjoy the fruits of a prosperous nation," Osoro stated.

April 25, 2025