Ruto slams opposition, pushes Busia growth

President William Ruto intensified his criticisms of the opposition during a visit to Western Kenya, asserting they lack the capacity to transform the country.

Speaking in Funyula, Busia County yesterday, during the second day of his four-day development tour of Western Kenya, the Head of State called on residents to support his administration’s initiatives. “The opposition is clueless and has no idea how to transform this country. Busia has long been sidelined because it has, for years, been in opposition. It is time this region joins the government and enjoys the benefits of development,” said Ruto.

He urged residents to reject divisive politics, highlighting the importance of unity and cooperation for economic growth. “Even the late Raila Odinga, whom I respected deeply, understood the need to work with the government for the sake of progress,” he added.

Ruto outlined a series of major projects intended to transform Busia. Key among them is the construction of a 340-bed hostel at Amukura Teachers Training College in Teso South Constituency at a cost of Sh147 million. The government will also invest an additional Sh30 million to complete the remaining works, allowing the college to admit more teacher trainees and improve access to quality teacher education in the region.

The President also announced the construction of a modern market in Amukura at Sh70 million to boost trade and empower small-scale traders. “This market will provide a clean, modern, and secure environment for traders, increase business opportunities, and strengthen the local economy,” Ruto said.

In addition, he unveiled plans for a new international stadium in Busia County, costing Sh900 million, aimed at developing sports infrastructure and creating youth empowerment opportunities. “The new Busia Stadium will complement the Talanta Hela Stadium project in Nairobi. These developments are part of our wider plan to promote sports, empower young people, and improve social infrastructure nationwide,” he explained.

Ruto emphasised the role of sports in social change and youth development, noting that new facilities will provide recreation spaces and create jobs both during and after construction. “Our young people have immense potential. We are building these facilities so talent can be identified, nurtured, and supported locally and internationally,” he said.

The President highlighted that these projects form part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aimed at ensuring all counties benefit from modern sports, education, and infrastructure. “The idea is to make every region a hub of productivity, through sports, trade, or education. We are investing in our youth because they are the heartbeat of our nation,” he added.

Ruto also encouraged young people to take advantage of government programmes such as the Talanta Hela initiative and the Nyota Programme, which aim to nurture talent while providing financial support for innovation and entrepreneurship. Similar development projects are underway across universities, technical training institutes, and colleges to enhance education standards and empower youth with employable skills.

The President reiterated that his administration is committed to ensuring all counties benefit from national projects, regardless of political alignment. “We will continue working with Governor Paul Otuoma and other leaders to ensure no part of Busia is left behind,” he said, urging residents to support ongoing programmes ahead of the 2027 general election.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, and CS for Cooperatives Wycliffe Oparanya urged Western Kenya to remain aligned with the broad-based government, arguing that the region cannot afford to stay in opposition when national leaders have demonstrated a commitment to local development.

Governor Otuoma welcomed the new investments and pledged his administration’s full support in ensuring projects are completed on time. “We appreciate the national government’s support in improving education, housing, and market infrastructure. These projects will create opportunities for youth and traders,” he said, adding that he would not allow the opposition to mislead the people of Busia.

Ruto’s visit to Busia follows similar tours across Western Kenya, including Kakamega and Vihiga counties, where he launched infrastructure, housing, and industrial projects.