President William Ruto Says Maandamano will Stop Like BBI
President William Ruto on Thursday affirmed his optimism that the opposition-led protests over the cost of living and government job distribution will end similarly to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) which he strongly opposed.
Although he avoided commenting on Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan's failed mediation attempt, Ruto stated that he is willing to negotiate on all topics except for national security and the safety of Kenyans. The Supreme Court rejected the BBI, a constitutional process led by Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, for violating constitutional regulations by having the Head of State initiate it.
Ruto has previously referred to the BBI as a "big con" meant to deceive Kenyans. The President warned those who use protests as a pretext to attack the police that they would face harsh consequences. President Ruto announced that during the protests more than 300 police officers were injured and are receiving treatment at various hospitals. He expressed gratitude to the residents of Lamu for not participating in the demonstrations and instead focusing on nation-building and maintaining peace. President Ruto also reiterated his commitment to empowering counties, pledging to release Sh32 billion to all 47 counties. However, he cautioned governors not to misuse the funds for organizing protests.
Additionally, he introduced a new payment method for cash transfers, stipulating that beneficiaries receive the money monthly. President Ruto also lauded plans to reduce the cost of fertilizers for farmers from Sh3,500 to Sh2,500, as he believes that agriculture is the best way to tackle high living costs and hunger. Finally, he announced plans to commercialize the Lamu Port to empower it to compete as the second-largest port in Kenya.
Lamu Governor Issa Timamy promised to develop his county by working with the national government. Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sharif urged President Ruto to provide full empowerment to all counties. Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki, Public Service representative Aisha Jumwa, senators, MPs, and MCAs were present. During the trip, the President inaugurated the Mokowe county commissioner's office and headquarters, which cost Sh214 million, and presented a Sh65 million check to the regional fishing community.