“I Will Teach You a Lesson in 2027,” Ruto Warns Political Rivals

President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to equitable development during a four-day tour of Western Kenya, unveiling new infrastructure projects and defending his administration against claims of regional neglect.

Speaking in Kakamega County on Thursday, Dr Ruto rejected opposition claims that his government has favoured certain regions, saying his agenda is focused on inclusive national growth. “My decision is that no region will be left behind in the government’s growth plan,” he said, describing his tour as proof of an effort to reach every part of the country.

During the visit, the president launched several projects, including the equipping of Butere Level 4 Hospital and the commissioning of roadworks in Malava, Lugari, and Shinyalu sub-counties. The government has allocated Sh2.5 billion for road construction in Kakamega, Sh2.2 billion to expand electricity access to 340,000 households, and Sh1 billion to complete the Kakamega Teaching and Referral Hospital. 

Dr Ruto said the investments demonstrate his administration’s focus on regional development. Butere Hospital, first opened in 2022 under former Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, will receive Sh150 million in medical equipment through the National Equipment Service Programme. Governor Fernandes Barasa welcomed the funding, saying the facility plays a central role in providing healthcare in lower Kakamega. 

“I prioritised completion of this hospital because it is key in delivering health services to our people,” he said.

The tour also carried a strong political message. Dr Ruto criticised opposition leaders, accusing them of spreading division and lacking credible policy ideas. He took aim at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, describing him as a divisive figure. 

“His key mission is to spread hatred, divide Kenyans along ethnic lines, and hurl insults at leaders,” Ruto said, adding that Gachagua’s political ambitions were not a threat.

He also referred to Raila Odinga, describing the late opposition leader as his most formidable challenger. “The only person who was giving me a headache was my late brother, Raila Odinga. These others are a walkover,” he said, expressing confidence in his political position.

Ruto’s tour coincided with campaigns for the Malava parliamentary by-election, where he is supporting United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate David Ndakwa. The president urged residents to elect Ndakwa, saying he would continue the development agenda started by the late MP Malulu Injendi. 

“I worked well with Malulu, and that is why I want you to give me Ndakwa, who has committed to completing the work that was started,” he said.

Several senior government officials joined the campaign, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, and Cotu Secretary-General Francis Atwoli. Atwoli said he had mobilised local leaders to support Ndakwa, adding, “In collaboration with all leaders from the Western region who are in the government, we shall ensure Ndakwa clinches victory.”

Mudavadi dismissed claims of outside interference in the by-election, emphasising that the decision lies with Malava residents. Wetang’ula echoed the remarks and pledged strong support for the UDA candidate.