Naivasha MP atrtributes Ruto's shoe attack to unnecessary campaign meetings

Naivasha MP Jane Kihara has attributed the incident where President William Ruto was hit by a shoe to unplanned campaign meetings and inadequate security during these impromptu events.

Kihara condemned the incident, which took place in Kuri, stating that those responsible should be arrested to prevent it from setting a bad precedent.

On Sunday, while on a development tour, President Ruto was struck on the hand by a shoe, causing anxiety among the crowd as police intervened and arrested three suspects.

Kihara explained that the president's unplanned campaign meetings posed challenges for security officers, particularly due to the swelling crowds. Nonetheless, she deemed the incident unfortunate and urged police to ensure the arrest of those responsible.

“I condemn this incident as it sets a bad precedent. Additionally, we call on the President to refrain from holding these campaign meetings until he delivers on his promises,” she stated.

The MP made these remarks during a forum aimed at establishing the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), the Senate Oversight Fund, and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in the Constitution.

On the subject of the fund, Kihara highlighted that it has supported thousands of vulnerable families, particularly through bursaries, especially when the government delayed funding for public schools.

“In Naivasha, we had only one secondary school; however, through the CDF, we have constructed over ten, primarily in rural areas, thus enhancing the education sector,” she noted.

She called for the NG-CDF to be enshrined in the Constitution, emphasising that MPs currently lack control over how the funds are managed since a committee oversees this process.

“Some people are suggesting that the funds should be taken over by the national or county governments, and that would be a significant mistake,” she added.

Former Lakeview MCA Simon Wanyoike accused the government of attempting to undermine devolution by assuming control over services managed by counties and MPs.

“Thanks to CDF, we have constructed quality classrooms compared to those built by the national government, and many vulnerable students have benefited from bursaries,” he stated.

David Maingi echoed these sentiments, mentioning that he was a beneficiary of a CDF bursary and suggested that the funds should be increased.

A parent, Hannah Nyambura, expressed gratitude, saying that all her children were able to attend school through the CDF bursary, which she described as a blessing in disguise.