By Andrew Mbuva.
Leaders allied to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have strongly criticised the planned anti-government demonstrations, accusing opposition leaders of inciting young people to engage in violence and destruction instead of pursuing constructive engagement.
The leaders spoke on Monday in Kalama, Machakos County, during the launch of the tarmacking of the 17-kilometre Makaveti–Iiuni Road, a KSh1.3 billion project expected to transform transport and spur economic activities in the area.
Led by Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka, the leaders urged Kenyans to reject politics of confrontation and instead support President William Ruto's development agenda.
"Kenya cannot be built by burning property. If anyone wants to demonstrate by burning things, let them start with their own homes and businesses first," Musyoka said.
The legislator accused opposition leaders of exploiting young people by allegedly encouraging them to participate in demonstrations while keeping their own children away from the protests.
"If you are serious about these demonstrations, let your children be in the front line. Do not send other people's children to get injured while your own remain safe," he said.
Musyoka further challenged opposition leaders to account for what they had done for the youth while serving in government, arguing that the Kenya Kwanza administration had rolled out programmes aimed at empowering young people.
He cited initiatives such as the Nyota programme, overseas job opportunities and the Affordable Housing Programme, saying they had created employment opportunities for thousands of young Kenyans.
"President William Ruto has already started programmes to help our youth. Because the President is working, let us give him time to deliver instead of inciting young people to fight," he added.
The event also turned into a political rally as leaders sought to rally residents behind President Ruto and the UDA administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse said the government's priority remained delivering development projects to wananchi rather than engaging in divisive politics.
"Our biggest desire is to help our people and bring development. Today we have launched a KSh1.3 billion tarmac road project. The leaders working with President William Ruto are focused on finding development solutions for our people," Mutuse said.
He urged residents to reject leaders whom he accused of promoting tribalism and hatred.
"We want to ask our people: Do you want development or politics of tribalism? Do you want politics of progress or politics of hatred? Do you want to move forward or go backwards?" he posed.
Machakos Town MP Caleb Mule thanked President Ruto for approving the road project, saying the residents of Kalama had waited for the road for many years.
"We thank President William Ruto for remembering the people of Machakos and Kalama with this road project," Mule said.
The legislator revealed that the President and his deputy are expected to visit the area to officially launch the construction works.
According to Mule, the road project is expected to be completed within 24 months and will significantly improve connectivity in the region.
"In two years, residents will have a fully tarmacked road up to Iiuni. All the river drifts along this route will also be upgraded into bridges to make movement easier and safer," he said.
The launch was also attended by former State House Chief of Staff Nzioka Waita, who is seeking the Machakos gubernatorial seat on a UDA ticket.
The KSh1.3 billion Makaveti–Iiuni Road project is expected to open up the area for trade, improve access to markets and enhance transport for thousands of residents in Kalama and neighbouring areas.
