President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto have promised to work with all leaders to move the country forward.
Speaking when they met leaders from Kakamega and Vihiga to discuss the two counties’ development agenda, at Kakamega State Lodge, President Kenyatta emphasised the government’s commitment to work with all leaders irrespective of party affiliation to ensure Kenyans receive efficient and effective services.
“What is important is not how much noise politicians make but what they do to improve the welfare of the citizens. As leaders, therefore, we must respect the will of the people, put aside political differences and work together in serving the electorate,” President Kenyatta said.
The President MCAs from the two counties to play their role effectively in taking services to the grassroots level. He said as the national government does its part, the county governments also have to be at the forefront in development at the grassroots level if devolution is to succeed.
Responding to infrastructure concerns raised by the leaders, President Kenyatta said the government has a national programme to construct 2,000 kilometres of roads from which the two counties will also benefit. He said the construction of roads that had stalled in the two counties will be revived.
He said the national government will work with the county government to address the challenges facing sugarcane and maize farmers.
Deputy President Ruto appealed to the leaders not to dwell on divisive politics but focus on serving citizens.
“Our responsibility as leaders is not to continue politicking long after the elections but to settle down in serving the electorate,” Ruto said.
Lurambi MP Raphael Otaalo said the people of western Kenya want development and will not follow the opposition blindly.