Makueni MP Susan Kiamba. File Photo. 
By Ryan Mumo
Makueni Member of Parliament Susan Kiamba has taken issue with President William Ruto for allegedly referring to members of the Opposition as “useless,” saying such remarks demean leaders who play a critical role in the country’s democratic processes.
Speaking during the President’s tour of Makueni County, Kiamba — who is also a Social Safeguard Specialist — called for respect and political tolerance, insisting that every person, regardless of political affiliation, has value and purpose.
“No man created in the likeness of God can be useless. Every man, whether dumb or deaf, has something special in him or her,” Kiamba said. “It pains me when I hear you, Mr. President, calling us in the Opposition useless. Personally, I am a master’s degree holder — I cannot be useless. So as we do politics, let’s give each other space and respect.”
The Makueni MP also raised concerns about what she termed as tribal discrimination in government employment opportunities, saying that the Kamba community has been sidelined in recent appointments.
“As we fix the hardware, let’s not forget the software. I am not being tribal, but the names I see coming to Parliament for approval in different employment opportunities have largely been from other tribes,” she said. “Kambas have been forgotten, and if you want us to listen to you, Mr. President, let us see inclusion in these employment opportunities.”
Turning to the government’s Affordable Housing programme, Kiamba urged the Ministry of Housing to always include a Resettlement Action Plan whenever land is earmarked for housing projects, noting that many projects stall because county governments lack funds to compensate affected families.
“These affordable houses are a good thing, but some projects delay because governors have no money to resettle people. I am asking the Housing Board to allocate some funds for resettlement,” she added.
In a quick rejoinder, President Ruto dismissed claims that he had called Opposition leaders useless, saying his remarks were taken out of context.
“I have not called anyone useless. It is the people who see you as leaders with no agenda, no plan, and lacking sound minds,” the President said.
The exchange drew mixed reactions from the crowd, with some applauding the MP for speaking boldly, while others cheered the President’s firm response.
