By James Murimi
Jubilee Party presidential candidate and party leader Fred Matiang’i has criticised President William Ruto over what he termed repeated launches of development projects, questioning the government’s commitment to delivering meaningful development to Kenyans.
Speaking in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, Matiang’i cited a project in Nyamira County which he alleged had been launched three times, arguing that leaders should concentrate on completing projects rather than repeatedly holding launch ceremonies.
He questioned the involvement of the President in projects which he said should ordinarily fall under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), challenging the government to demonstrate tangible results instead of what he described as political publicity around development initiatives.
Matiang’i spoke during a political engagement attended by several leaders from the United Opposition, including PPK Party Leader Ndindi Nyoro, PNU Party Leader Peter Munya and PLP Party Leader Martha Karua, among others.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary used the occasion to reflect on the record of the Jubilee administration under retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, citing programmes and interventions he said had made a difference in the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
He particularly highlighted the Linda Mama maternal healthcare programme, measures taken to address insecurity in Laikipia and efforts to strengthen the integrity of national examinations by curbing examination malpractice.
Matiang’i said he was prepared to build on the achievements of the Jubilee administration, presenting his experience in government as part of his case for the presidency in the 2027 General Election.
He also reaffirmed the commitment of the United Opposition to working together, urging political leaders and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns as the country moves closer to the next election.
The Jubilee leader further called for an end to abductions, warning against practices that threaten personal freedoms, public confidence and the country’s democratic environment.
The leaders urged the authorities to safeguard the rights and security of citizens, saying political competition should be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and respect for the rule of law.
Nyoro said Kenyans should not just go for a leader but one with a good track record.
Karua said she is the best suited candidate to face President William Ruto.
During the two events, the leaders vowed to remain united and support one presidential candidate who will face it with President Ruto during the elections.
Earlier, Matiang’i and other opposition leaders, except Karua, attended a Sunday service at St John Paul II Kandara Catholic Church near Naro Moru town in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County.
The delegation was hosted by Nyeri County political leaders and aspirants seeking various elective positions, led by senatorial aspirant Nick Mararo and gubernatorial aspirant Wangai Ndirangu. Others were Woman Representative aspirants Elizabeth Muthoni and Caroline Mwangi.
The leaders promised, if elected, they would ensure the rectify the ills committed by current and former leaders.
Following the church service, the leaders joined the congregation and other well-wishers in a fundraising drive towards the construction of a new church.
The engagements provided the opposition leaders with an opportunity to interact with local residents and political supporters while advancing their message of unity, peaceful political competition and the need for accountable leadership ahead of the 2027 elections.
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