Hussein Mohamed, a State House spokesperson, has responded to recent allegations that President William Ruto launched the Metembe-Marani-Kegogi-Nyaore Road during his visit to Kisii County.
Lawyer Morara Kebaso made the allegations, which sparked a social media debate, accusing local leaders of misleading the public about the project.
According to Kebaso, local leaders were celebrating President Ruto’s initiative to launch projects.
He has actively verified government projects across the country and expressed his concerns on social media.
“Abagusii leaders were busy simping and praising Ruto like a Lord. This is Metembe-Marani-Kegogi-Nyaore Road,” Kebaso stated.
“Launched in 2016 by Uhuru, Launched again juzi when Ruto came to Kisii. Those leaders should stop playing with our minds. Which development did the president bring to Kisii? Tell us!”
Hussein Mohamed responded by providing a detailed explanation of the road’s history and the circumstances surrounding President Ruto’s recent relaunch of it.
According to Hussein, the 64.6 km road that connects the Kitutu Chache North and South constituencies in Kisii County was awarded on May 11, 2016, and construction began on August 5, 2016, following the launch by then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.
However, Hussein clarified that the original contract was mutually terminated on May 16, 2023, due to the contractor’s failure to perform.
Despite the fact that the 30-month contract period had lasted 77 months, only 27 kilometers of the road had been completed at the time of the termination.
The road was then re-tendered, and a new contract was awarded on March 14, 2024, with construction starting on June 22, 2024.
The State House Spokesperson emphasized that the recent ceremony where President Ruto reopened the road was a formal event that marked the start of the newly awarded contract.
“A project launch is often just a ceremonial event, and it sometimes occurs after works have already begun, hence the phrase ‘OFFICIAL LAUNCH’. Don’t overly concern yourself with plaques,” he noted.
He also encouraged critics to visit the Kegogi-Sombogo-Marani-Ititi section, where ongoing construction can be seen.
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