The Bukusu Council of Elders, led by Chairman Richard Walukano, has strongly criticized President William Ruto for what they describe as disrespectful and demeaning remarks against Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa.
The elders warned that such statements risk fueling political intolerance and undermining unity in the Western region.
The council highlighted that the President allegedly launched the scathing attack during his four-day development tour in the region, particularly in Cheptais, where he presided over the commissioning of a market construction project.
Speaking to the press in Bungoma, Secretary Job Bwonya said, “The utterances by President William Ruto were meant to humiliate and demean not only DAP-K party leader but the entire Luhya community. They caught us off guard and by surprise.”
The council expressed disappointment that the President did not address pressing issues affecting the region. Among the concerns raised were:
Thousands of Nzoia sugar cane farmers who have not been paid despite assurances that leasing the mill would resolve their problems.
The long-delayed completion of the Misikhu-Naitiri road, launched in 2016 when Ruto was Deputy President, with no completion date even after 10 years.
Incomplete infrastructure on other roads, including Musikoma-Mungatsi-Lurambi.
The construction of the SMART CITY at Bungoma airstrip, which the elders argue should have been used for a level 6 hospital.
The council noted that a High Court order currently restrains development on that land pending legal proceedings.
Bwonya emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law, stating, “It is in the best interest of the country that the rule of law is our guiding principle, and anything outside that is anarchy.”
The elders also called on prominent Luhya leaders—including ang’ula","National Assembly Speaker"], George Natembeya-Nzoia governor"],
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