Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has refuted allegations that he is attempting to divide the Mt. Kenya region, emphasizing instead the need to address longstanding development disparities within the area.

Speaking on Citizen TV's Monday Report, Ruku responded to accusations from the camp of Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, who claimed Ruku was sent to create discord in the region.

"I have not been sent by anybody to split the mountain," Ruku stated. "I am merely highlighting the realities facing the mountain."

He criticized Gachagua for what he described as political arrogance, urging a shift in approach to better tackle the unique challenges faced by Mt. Kenya.

Uneven Development in Mt. Kenya

Ruku pointed to significant disparities in infrastructure development, particularly road networks, between Mt. Kenya West and East. According to the CS, Mt. Kenya West accounts for 77.7% of all tarmac roads in the region, while the eastern side has just 22.7%.

Drawing from personal experience, Ruku recalled that when elected to Parliament in 2002, his constituency in Mt. Kenya East had only 37 kilometres of tarmac roads spread over 871 square kilometres, illustrating the extent of neglect.

He identified counties such as Meru, Isiolo, Tharaka-Nithi, Embu, and Kirinyaga as areas with distinct challenges that require tailored political engagement and solutions.

Government Initiatives to Bridge the Gap

The Cabinet Secretary highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ruto administration to foster equitable development across Mt. Kenya East. He mentioned a pipeline of projects including road construction, market development, electricity expansion, water supply, and improved connectivity—many of which are unprecedented since independence.

On Regional Leadership and Unity

Responding to Gachagua's claim that Mt. Kenya is united under one leader, Ruku acknowledged the shared regional identity but disputed the notion of singular leadership. He noted that Gachagua's influence is largely confined to parts of Mt. Kenya West and accused him of exploiting ethnic politics to consolidate support.

"He has convinced a significant portion of Mt. Kenya West, but not the entire region," Ruku said.