During a rally in Bungoma on August 14, President William Ruto sharply criticized former President Uhuru Kenyatta, alleging that Uhuru sponsors opposition activities through the Linda Mwananchi group but fails to adequately compensate the youth involved.
Ruto claimed that youth operatives deployed by Uhuru's camp are sent on political assignments without sufficient pay, struggling to cover basic expenses such as fuel. He described this as exploitation, emphasizing that employers must provide fair wages to their workers.
Linda Mwananchi Group Under Scrutiny
The president’s remarks appeared aimed at the Linda Mwananchi group, which has been conducting an online fundraising campaign via a Pay Bill number. The group, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, is widely believed to operate under Uhuru’s direction as part of opposition mobilization efforts.
Ruto, who previously supported Uhuru’s presidency, positioned his comments as a defense of Kenyan youth, questioning why a billionaire leader would allow workers to struggle financially while carrying out political duties.
Call for Voter Registration in Bungoma
Beyond his critique, Ruto urged Bungoma residents to register as voters ahead of the upcoming elections. He stressed that voter registration is a vital tool for citizens to influence development, including improved infrastructure and education access.
He encouraged attendees to view voting as the primary means to hold leaders accountable and direct public resources to their communities.
