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The President's remarks came against a backdrop of growing concern over the amount developing countries are spending to service debt. UNICEF, in its State of the World’s Children 2025 report, said 45 developing countries were spending more on debt interest than on health, while 22 were spending more on interest than education.
The President said leaders should avoid politics that pits communities against one another, warning that tribalism and discrimination should have no place in the country’s political affairs.
Speaking on NTV, Ruku said the region has remained united politically and socially, having supported successive governments since independence, but argued that development gaps between Mt. Kenya East and West need to be addressed.
The President said elections should never be treated as a matter of life and death, adding that leaders have a responsibility to promote national cohesion instead of deepening divisions for political gain.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula led a political meeting in Emuhaya Constituency, where Kenya Kwanza leaders criticised opposition politicians for what they termed as efforts to fuel public anger and turn youth against the government.
Kalonzo pointed out that these challenges are not only the result of limited national attention or budget constraints but also reflect weaknesses in how resources have been managed and distributed over the years.
Without naming him directly, the President criticised some politicians for spending decades in public service without creating visible change for their communities.
The County Governments Budget Implementation Review Report for the first quarter of the financial year ending June 30, 2026, released on Monday by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, lists Kericho, Tana River, Turkana, Bomet, Siaya, Trans Nzoia, Baringo, Kilifi, Kwale, Kajiado, Kisumu, Mombasa, Vihiga, Busia, West Pokot, Bungoma, Uasin Gishu, Wajir, Laikipia and Kisii as counties that did not spend any money on development.
Ruto said his remarks had nothing to do with extending his stay, but were meant to encourage Kenyans to look beyond short-term politics.
The government says it has processed compensation for more than 3,000 people, each receiving Sh150,000 to facilitate their move. But several residents argue that the amount cannot cover the costs of finding new housing and rebuilding their routines.
The Deputy President also cautioned politicians circulating hate speech and empty rhetoric that they will encounter strong resistance when election campaigns commence. He reiterated that the President is focused on delivering promises, fast-tracking development, and uniting Kenyans.
Speaking on Sunday during a church service at the African Divine Church, Gamalenga, Vihiga County, the President said Kenya’s economic and social potential remains largely untapped, but his administration is determined to transform the country into a global economic powerhouse.