Ruto urges Kiambu leaders to prioritise development

President William Ruto on Friday urged leaders in Kiambu County to focus on development and constructive politics.

The remarks came after a public disagreement involving supporters of different political groups over the county’s 2027 gubernatorial election.

Speaking during visits to Juja and Thika constituencies, Ruto encouraged politicians to abandon “retrogressive politics that are incisive” and prioritise unity and performance-based leadership.

“You have the power to elect leaders who have delivered. Let us focus on development and engage in constructive politics,” he said.

In Juja, the president launched and inspected several projects, including the Ndarugo Affordable Housing Project and Juja-Nyachaba Road.

In Thika, he visited the Huduma Affordable Housing Project and Thika Stadium, and pledged the construction of the Thika Expressway.

He also encouraged local leaders to work with the national government to support development programmes.

“I am ready to work with all leaders to ensure that everything we promised the people is delivered,” Ruto said.

He commented on political dynamics, saying opposition leaders have focused on criticising him.

“We are banking on our impressive development track record to distinguish ourselves from opponents,” he noted.

Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah was briefly interrupted by the crowd but reassured the president of the people’s support.

“The people of Kiambu are fully behind you, Mr President. We will deal with our own issues locally,” he said.

Thika MP Ng’ang’a also voiced support for Ruto and stated his intention to participate in the 2027 gubernatorial elections.

Governor Wamatangi stressed his commitment to development and urged locals to evaluate leaders based on their achievements.

He assured Ruto of support for ongoing development programmes and said the people of Kiambu are focused on service.

“Mr President, don’t let anyone tell you that I’m objecting to development. I’m fully behind you on development; people need jobs, not politics,” he said.

Kiambu Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha pledged support for the president and praised the projects launched during the visits.

Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi appealed to supporters of both Ng’ang’a and Wamatangi to maintain unity, noting that the electorate will decide the outcome at the ballot.

“Divisive politics risks affecting our progress,” he said, adding that voters will determine the leaders they choose in 2027.

He also called on all political actors to respect the head of state.

Other leaders accompanying President Ruto included Simon King’ara (Ruiru), George Koimburi (Juja), Betty Maina (Murang’a), and Githua Wamacukuru (Kabete), among others.