NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has defended his administration’s performance, insisting that ongoing development projects across the country will secure him a second term in office despite mounting criticism from opposition leaders.
Speaking during a meeting with the Maendeleo ya Wanawake, the President pointed to progress in infrastructure and housing as evidence that his government is delivering on its agenda.
“They said nothing is working, but today stalled road projects have resumed, contractors are back on site. They claimed affordable housing was impossible, yet across Kenya, markets and housing projects are taking shape,” Ruto noted.
He added that criticism of government programmes is not new, accusing some political actors of consistently opposing development initiatives.
“Hiyo porojo yao sio porojo wameanza sahizi, walianza zamani. Wao ndio walituambia ati Bomas imeuzwa kwa Waturuki. Leo Bomas inajengwa na itakamilika miezi miwili mitatu inayokuja. Wakasema barabara ya Mau Summit ata wheelbarrow hawajaona. Wale mmepitia hiyo barabara inajengwa au haijengwi?” he pointed out.
The President also addressed growing controversy surrounding the Social Health Authority (SHA), rejecting claims that KSh103 billion had been lost in the rollout of the government’s flagship health financing programme.
The allegations, raised by opposition figures including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, have sparked a heated political debate over transparency and accountability in the sector.
“There are those spreading propaganda about SHA. One hasn’t even registered, another has never used the service, and another is simply playing politics without understanding the program,” the head of state added.
Ruto further dismissed warnings that the programme could collapse, saying investigations had found no basis for such claims.
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“Someone claimed SHA will collapse in six months. As President, I investigated and found the claims were based on hearsay and superstition.”
The President’s remarks come amid intensifying political realignments and early positioning ahead of the 2027 General Election, with both government and opposition figures seeking to shape public perception of key national programmes.
While the government maintains that initiatives such as affordable housing, infrastructure development, and the transition from NHIF to SHA are on track, critics have continued to question their implementation, cost, and long-term sustainability.
Ruto, however, expressed confidence that his administration’s record will ultimately resonate with voters, arguing that tangible development outcomes will outweigh political criticism.
