BOMET, Kenya – Leaders allied to the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration have strongly defended a series of empowerment meetings targeting women, widows, persons with disabilities and small traders, saying the initiatives are transforming lives across the country.
Led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, the leaders branded critics of the empowerment meetings as “enemies of progress”.
They spoke during an empowerment drive program in Sotik constituency, Bomet County.
“The Bible says God is a father to the fatherless and a husband to the widows. Today, we have come to support widows and persons living with disabilities so they can be self-reliant and contribute to nation-building. The Constitution compels us to protect the vulnerable,” said Speaker Wetang’ula.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, while echoing Speaker Wetang’ula’s sentiments, dismissed attempts by opponents to block the fundraisers through the courts, insisting the meetings would continue as part of Kenya Kwanza’s election pledges.
“We will not stop these empowerment meetings. It was in our United Democratic Alliance (UDA) manifesto aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of small traders and ordinary Kenyans. We must fulfil that pledge,” said Senator Cheruiyot.
Other gov’t programs similar to empowerment meetings
Cheruiyot, who is also the Kericho Senator, emphasised that the empowerment meetings complement other government programmes like the Hustler Fund, Youth Fund and Women Enterprise Fund, all aimed at boosting livelihoods at the grassroots.
Belgut MP Nelson Koech, who doubles as chairperson of the National Assembly Departmental committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, noted that the practice of supporting communities through public fundraisers is not new.
“This is one of the best programmes we’ve ever had; the name has simply changed from Harambees, which have always existed. We promised to empower communities, and we will stay the course,” he said.
Why President Ruto should be re-elected in 2027
Nevertheless, the leaders rallied residents to support President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027, arguing that continuity would allow the government to complete ongoing projects and reforms.
“What the President has done so far can be seen. Your leaders here have fought hard to secure better terms for small-scale farmers. We should stand with the President in 2027,” Speaker Wetang’ula urged.
On his part, Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe asked Kenyans to support President Ruto in 2027, and in 2032 to rally behind Speaker Wetang’ula.
The leaders, while highlighting the administration’s achievements, cited subsidy programmes that have boosted agricultural production, improved food security, and stabilised prices.
“We are here today to help you raise funds so you can start projects and benefit from government initiatives like new markets. Use the money to reinvest and grow,” said Emurua Dikir MP Johanna Ng’eno.
What the broad-based government means to Kenyans
Migori Senator Eddy Oketch argued that the “broad-based” arrangement within government has helped lower political temperatures and bridge divisions, creating a more stable environment for development.
Other leaders present criticised opposition figures, accusing them of advancing ethnic politics and personal insults instead of offering constructive alternatives.
“Some of our counterparts are tribalists and hate-mongers. President Ruto has united the country, and now development is spread everywhere. This is the kind of leadership we need,” said Taveta MP John Bwire.
Speaker Wetang’ula added: “We do not want politics driven by ethnicity, hate or division. The opposition has shown they have no agenda beyond insults.”
The leaders vowed to continue holding similar meetings across the country to preach unity and support programmes aimed at transforming communities.
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