The tone maize farmer’s use when talking about this crop is sombre, one that borders on dejection and hopelessness. The verdict has been delivered – diversify or perish.
Right at the centre of the politics is Deputy President William Ruto, who has reiterated over time, throwing snide remarks on those agitating for better prices. He has also been allegedly mentioned in the scandal that has stirred rebellion from the farmers.
Recently in Nakuru, DP Ruto hit back at leaders pushing for better prices for the maize farmer. As if that was not enough, he talked about plans to triple the prices of rice and increase that of potatoes five times.
It leaves one to wonder why DP Ruto cannot help people in his own backyard especially now that they have been behind him wholeheartedly during elections. Do their plights matter? It is an absolute no for DP Ruto.
The common feeling among farmers is that there’s a lack of commitment from the community’s kingpin. It is perhaps due to the vested interest Ruto has, allegedly, and would benefit quite immensely when the farmers abandon maize farming.
It is time the Kalenjin community looked for a leader that actually cared about their welfare, not one who seems to cripple them. DP Ruto is a made man. He has since lost touch on the issues affecting the farmer, seemingly blinded by his ambition to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Is it the assurance that no matter what the Kalenjin will vote for him? Methinks it is time for the people to decide the agenda of the country, one that helps them prosper, and elect a leader that will help meet the development agenda of the farmer.
At the moment, DP Ruto is not such a man. Those who support him do so due to blind sycophancy.
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