Deputy President William Ruto has said those behind the theft of the Kazi Mtaani funds must be held to account.
Ruto said it was unfortunate that selfish leaders were profiting from the underprivileged youth in the country.
He noted that every beneficiary of the programme is supposed to be paid Sh1,000 and not Sh450 a day.
“What was approved in the budget was Sh1, 000 per person. So, where is the balance of Sh550? Who is pocketing the money for our youth?” posed Ruto.
He was speaking on Tuesday in Embakasi South where he held rallies in Kwa Reuben, General Motors, Imara Daima and Pipeline.
"What is the aim of the program is some individuals are following this money and pocketing yet again?" he posed.
The program National Hygiene Program was relaunched a week after several months since it was stopped.
On Tuesday morning, Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho refuted claims that the government is underpaying youth.
He said money has not been diverted for campaigns as claimed.
Kibicho said contrary to claims by a section of politicians arguing the amount is what has been budgeted for and has been paid to recipients since its launch in 2020.
The Deputy President insisted that Kenya Kwanza will form a Government that will create decent jobs for the youth.
“The Handshake killed the Big Four that was meant to generate jobs and income for the youth,” he observed.
The Deputy President said all was not lost as the Kenya Kwanza Government will invest in long-term Government projects that will offer jobs to the youth.
Ruto who had earlier held a meeting with a section of mitumba traders’ representatives from Nairobi at his Karen residence said the Kenya Kwanza administration will ensure there are legislations to protect those in the business.
Underscoring the importance of the business in the country, Ruto said just like the textile industry both the users and the traders must coexist hence ought to be supported and protected.
ANC leader Musalia Mudavadi who accompanied the DP echoed the sentiment saying the Kenya Kwanza administration will protect and stimulate the growth of small and informal businesses.
Other leaders in the rallies were Rigathi Gachagua, Moses Wetang’ula, Alfred Mutua, Justin Muturi, Johnson Sakaja, Simon Mbugua, John Kiarie, Nixon Korir, Millicent Omanga, George Theuri, and James Gakuya, among others.
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