Kisii gubernatorial aspirant Dr. Ezekiel Machogu Ombaki has criticized President William Ruto, accusing him of recycling promises instead of delivering tangible development during his recent four-day tour of the Gusii region.
In a statement issued Thursday, the former Education Cabinet Secretary said many of the President’s pledges on infrastructure, markets, and water projects amounted to “rhetoric,” noting they mirror commitments made during previous visits that remain largely unfulfilled.
Machogu cited stalled progress at Suneka Airstrip as a key example, alleging that contractors often appear briefly during high-profile presidential visits before abandoning the site. He also questioned the lack of progress on several road projects across Kisii County.
He further faulted the President for failing to address earlier commitments, including the expansion of the Sotik–Keroka–Kisii Road and the construction of the Mawego and Bonyunyu dams, which he said were notably absent from the latest announcements.
The former CS also raised concerns over the continued reliance on Suneka Airstrip, noting that the facility can only accommodate small aircraft despite earlier promises to upgrade it into a fully operational commercial airport.
President William Ruto toured Kisii and Nyamira counties as part of a broader development agenda, presiding over the launch and commissioning of various projects. In Kisii, he unveiled initiatives targeting road upgrades, water supply expansion, modernization of markets, and improvements to transport infrastructure.
The visit featured public rallies and inspections of project sites, with government officials outlining timelines and expected economic benefits. Leaders accompanying the President, including Kisii Governor Simba Arati, said the projects are aimed at stimulating local economies, creating jobs, and improving connectivity.
However, concerns persist among a section of leaders and residents over the status of previously launched projects, with critics arguing that the success of new pledges will depend on consistent implementation.
Machogu said Kisii residents are growing frustrated with repeated project launches that fail to translate into completed developments.
“The people of Kisii deserve accountability and results, not repeated pledges,” he said, urging the government to prioritize completion of ongoing projects.
Meanwhile, a Masimba MCA defended presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i, saying his public service record “speaks for itself” and cannot be undermined by rhetoric.
The MCA also linked Kisii County’s challenges—including economic stagnation, youth unemployment, and stalled development—to what he described as ineffective county leadership. He called for leadership focused on unity, accountability, and tangible progress.
The remarks come amid intensifying political activity ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders increasingly positioning themselves for key elective seats, including the Nyaribari Masaba parliamentary contest.
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