Ruto Says Raila Free to Hold Demos but in Peace

President William Ruto has said opposition leader Raila Odinga and the Azimio coalition have the freedom to organize rallies provided they uphold peace. 

On Saturday, July 1, the Head of State warned that any demonstrations should not lead to the destruction of property or disrupt the economy. During a homecoming event for Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo, the president reprimanded opposition leaders, pointing out that their protests did not help with food production. Leaders who accompanied the President condemned the judiciary for suspending the implementation of the Finance Act pending the hearing and determination of a case filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah. 

 "I am happy because the opposition has agreed with the government on subsidizing production. They have now shifted from mass action to political rallies," President Ruto said. "We are only asking them to stop destroying property during their protests." 

Regarding the stalled Arror and Kimwarer dams and Kamariny Stadium in Elgeyo Marakwet, Ruto said the projects will commence soon, citing that the projects had been halted for political reasons. He stated that Kenya and Italy, the country funding the two dams, had reached an agreement to restore the Arror and Kimwarer dams, with the goal of providing water to the drought-prone areas of Kerio Valley. Additionally, Ruto declared that the government is planning to construct 100 dams and a few water pans.

The Head of State had earlier participated in a tree-planting challenge in Keiyo North before launching the renovation of the Yokot Dam. Eliud Kipchoge, Mary Keitany, and Vivian Cheruiyot, all record-holding marathon runners, participated in the tree-planting initiative. President Ruto said increased forest cover and reforestation will guarantee the nation food security and mitigate drought. 

"Tree planting is now a priority of the government," he said. 

Deputy President Gachagua stated that no government officials will be granted a salary increase amid the ongoing financial crisis. Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi slammed the Judiciary and asked them to act in the best interest of Kenyans. 

"We should not be taking advantage of the situation and receiving higher payouts when Kenyans are having a hard time making ends meet," he said.