Kenyans Take Life & Death Matters Like A Joke: Ruto To Critics
Ruto shrugged off the memes that emerged when many online users took advantage of the road project he named during his recent Northern Kenya tour to create a trend
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
President William Ruto on Wednesday, February 19 criticised Kenyans taking serious matters for granted, in response to criticism over his mastery of road projects in the country, a matter which went viral during his development trip to Northern Kenya.
Speaking during the contract signing for improved electricity access via mini-grids and solar in Nairobi, Ruto shrugged off the memes that emerged when many online users took advantage of the road project he named during his recent Northern Kenya tour to create a trend, mocking him though not knowing that the road was already under construction.
"I was in Northern Kenya, and I did announce a major road artery that will be constructed from Isiolo through Wajir, Mandera, and many people think it is a joke. In this country, sometimes we take matters of life and death as if it is a joke," he exposed.
A section of Isiolo-Mandera Road under construction. /SIMBA GULEID
"I'm committed to delivering that 750 kilometres of road because, for a very long time, we have left Northern Kenya behind. And I want to ask the people of Kenya, as we develop that transport corridor there will be huge opportunities; take time and sample those opportunities," he added.
Ruto's remarks came a day after his Deputy, Kithure Kindiki, defended him as he confirmed that 11 contractors are actively working on the construction of the Isiolo-Mandera road.
Speaking during a consultative meeting with Meru leaders, Kindiki stated that certain sections of the Isiolo-Mandera road, set for completion in the next two and a half years, have already been paved.
"I saw people making a lot of fun about the long road that he (Ruto) was explaining. I was very happy when I saw people trying to mock the President because I have information which they do not have," he stated, adding "That road is going to be constructed and people saying that do not know."
Kindiki also stressed that the project would be a major government milestone showcased ahead of the 2027 general elections. Additionally, he assured that the road would be instrumental in unlocking the region's economic potential.
Recently, Kenyans have turned Ruto's sentiments into memes and short videos circulating on social media. Notably, this follows a statement by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in which he accused Ruto of using road projects as a strategy to win over voters.
Meanwhile, President Ruto announced plans to close a power plant in northern Kenya within a year as part of the government's shift toward sustainable renewable energy. He disclosed that efforts were in progress to shut down a diesel-powered grid in Lodwar, reinforcing the government's goal of achieving a fully clean energy grid.
Ruto stated that the government has begun efforts to integrate diesel with a solar photovoltaic (PV) system, with preparations in progress to install eight megawatts of solar power in the country's northern regions, known for their extended sunny periods.
Additionally, the diesel-powered grid in Lodwar, Turkana County, is set to be decommissioned as the government accelerates its transition from diesel to solar energy.
"In Lodwar, we are taking a bold and decisive step to shut down the diesel power plant and extend the power grid to Lodwar by next year," the President said, adding, "I am looking forward to that proud moment when I switch off the diesel power plant in Lodwar for the first time."
