President Ruto’s daughter, Charlene, has found herself embroiled in a political tussle with MPs from Kitui County following her two-day visit to the region.
The conflict involves two MPs from the ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance: Rachael Nyamai (Kitui South) and Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East).
Charlene Ruto visited Kitui South Constituency on Sunday, accompanied by East Africa Community Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza.
During her visit, she distributed more than 1,000 pairs of shoes to various primary schools through the Zero Bare Foot Campaign, led by CEO Victor Kiprono.
The campaign aims to provide footwear to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they do not have to walk to school barefoot.
Dr. Nyamai expressed her discontent with being left out of the event, suggesting that the organizers had deliberately excluded her.
She argued that as the local MP, her involvement was crucial for the success of such initiatives. Ms. Malonza, however, clarified that her office had sent invitations to all elected leaders, including members of the county assembly.
This clarification aimed to dispel any notions of intentional exclusion. Additionally, Dr. Nyamai raised concerns about the source of funding for the shoes, noting that her office could not afford to finance such an initiative on its own.
Mr. Mbai criticized the quality and size of the shoes distributed, arguing that they were not a priority for the residents of Kitui East.
He suggested that there were more pressing issues that needed attention and resources. Furthermore, Mr. Mbai mentioned his interest in the Kitui County chairmanship seat in the upcoming UDA grassroots elections, hinting at potential political motivations behind his criticism.
In response to these accusations, Charlene Ruto held a press conference at Kyoani Primary School in Ikutha.
She expressed her dismay at the criticism, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that children do not have to walk to school barefoot.
Charlene explained that many pupils told her the shoes they received were the first they had ever owned.
This, she argued, highlighted the significant impact of the Zero Bare Foot Campaign.
Charlene also highlighted her role as the patron of the Zero Barefoot Campaign, stating that she supports the initiative because it provides much-needed assistance to children from needy families.
She stressed that the campaign was not politically motivated but driven by a genuine desire to improve the lives of vulnerable children.
Charlene’s statements aimed to reassure the public and critics alike that the initiative’s primary focus was on the welfare of the children, not on political gains.
The political tussle in Kitui County underscores the complexities and challenges that can arise when humanitarian initiatives intersect with local politics.
While Charlene Ruto’s efforts through the Zero Bare Foot Campaign aim to address a critical need, the differing perspectives among local leaders highlight the need for better communication and coordination in such endeavors.
As the debate continues, it is essential to keep the welfare of the children at the forefront, ensuring that they receive the support they need without getting entangled in political disputes.
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