Stop activist mentality and work, Ruto tells governors

Deputy President William Ruto has asked governors to be investor friendly if they want development in counties.

Speaking on Saturday at Diani Reef Hotel during the council of governors induction, Ruto condemned a section of governors who he said act like activists and comedians instead of being leaders.

The DP pointed out the participation of some governors in NASA protests saying that is unfriendly to investmenters.

"We should not scare away hope of development by carrying twigs. If we leaders carry twigs then what should activists do," he said.

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Ruto cited as an example a county he did not name where goons chased away would-be investors who had gone for a seminar.

He condemned the administration of the said county for supporting the act instead of taking action against the goons

"Investors were attacked and chased away by goons in one county and leaders are saying that "we don't want seminars in our areas.

"If you are at the fore front of demonstrations in your county as a governor then how do you expect investors to settle in that area?"

Ruto noted that although devolution has had some challenges in the first phase of implementation, it has made commendable progress.

He pledged that he, together with President Uhuru Kenyatta, will work with all governors to spearhead development irrespective of their political affiliations.

"Our offices are open any time for consultation on development. We will support you in delivering services to the people," Ruto said.

The DP reiterated that the government will focus on four main principles on its second term which will boost the economy once implemented.

They include; food security, manufacturing, affordable housing and universal healthcare.

On food security, Ruto said the government will, through the ministry of Agriculture, liaise with county governments to register farmers, roll out subsidies and look out for irrigation plans.

"Governors will be the champions of these principles to make sure their counties are investor friendly," Ruto said.

Council of Governors chairman Josephat Nanok who is also the Turkana governor urged governors to work smoothly with the national government for a better implementation of devolution.

"This exercise has shown us that devolution is a possible thing. I wish to thank all of you for participating effectively and I am sure we are now able to deliver what we have learnt and serve the people," he said.