Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has criticized President William Ruto following remarks he made during his tour of the Ukambani region, which were perceived as insulting to local leaders and the Kamba community.
Speaking on Friday, Ndeti noted that respect for the Kamba community is non-negotiable, declaring that any insult or disregard is unacceptable.
"Respect for the Kamba community is non-negotiable. Any insult or disregard is unacceptable. Upholding dignity in public engagements is crucial, as disrespect toward any community erodes trust, weakens leadership, and jeopardizes the principles of accountability and responsible governance," Ndeti stated.
The Governor's remarks come in defense of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, whom she described as a man of integrity and diplomacy.
"When you insult Kalonzo, it's us you are insulting. The way I know His Excellency Kalonzo Musyoka, he would never go to Sugoi and start insulting Ruto because he is a man of God," she said.
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Ndeti revealed that she deliberately boycotted President Ruto's visit to Machakos County, citing the disrespectful remarks made against her community's leadership.
"Ruto was in my area today, but I didn't go. Someone is insulting my leader, and I'm sitting with them for what reason? They know Kalonzo is a man of God and a diplomat, so they take advantage of it and insult him," the Governor explained.
She emphasized that her loyalty to her community takes precedence over political protocols, regardless of who is involved.
"I am a daughter of this community. If my community is insulted, I have no business with you, even if you are the president of the Republic of Kenya. Respect my people and I will respect you," Ndeti declared firmly.
The controversy stems from comments made by President Ruto during his tour of Machakos County, where he made disparaging remarks about Ukambani leaders and the united opposition.
"Let's not waste time with useless people, Ukambani is left behind because of it," Ruto told residents during his visit. "They have no agenda, they have no manifesto, they have no plans, and they are brainless.”
Ruto also aimed at opposition leaders, saying, "Those foolish people trying to divide the country into shares, I want to say that is bad politics. This country is for everyone."
President Ruto had launched a four-day development tour of the Ukambani region on Wednesday, November 12, visiting Makueni, Kitui, and Machakos Counties to commission roads and other development projects.
On the first day of his visit, the President commissioned the Kasikeu and Mikuyu Bridges along with their approach roads in Makueni County. He also distributed title deeds to residents in Kasikeu and launched the Emali-Ukia Road in Kibwezi West, Makueni County.
Following the launch, Ruto emphasized his administration's commitment to projects that directly benefit citizens.
"We are implementing infrastructure development projects that meet the immediate needs of our citizens, unlocking the economic potential of our rural communities, and driving inclusive growth from the bottom up," he stated.
The President maintained that no region would be overlooked in his government's development plans.
"Our goal is to ensure that every part of our country, including Makueni County, where development has lagged for far too long, is not left behind as we work to transform Kenya into a prosperous nation," Ruto added.
