Ruto Claps Back at Critics as He Highlights Key Road Projects in Baringo
President William Ruto has defended his administration’s focus on road infrastructure, emphasizing its role in enhancing security and development.
Speaking during the burial of the late Senator William Cheptumo in Baringo County on March 1, 2025, Ruto detailed several road projects underway in the region while brushing off criticism of his frequent emphasis on road construction.
Roads Under Construction in Baringo
The president highlighted that his government had completed the road from Ainamoi to Kabluk via Barwesa, a key project that the late Cheptumo had strongly advocated for.
“The late Cheptumo approached me regarding the road from Ainamoi where it meets the road to Iten, and we agreed to construct that road from Ainamoi through Kabluk to Barwesa,” Ruto stated.
“That road has been completed, though I hear there are some minor issues that we will fix,” he added.
Additionally, he assured residents that the road linking Kipsaraman to Barwesa, Bartabwa, and Kinyach is currently under construction. He acknowledged previous challenges with contractors but noted that a new one had already been engaged.
“We had challenges with the previous contractor, but we have now engaged a new one who has already set up at Kinyach. He will complete the remaining stretch and also fix the deteriorating sections leading to Kipsaraman,” Ruto stated.
The president further announced that his government had secured funding for a 65-kilometre road extending from Kinyach through Aror to Kafwar.
“We want to open up this region to promote peace and development,” he emphasized.
Ruto also confirmed that another major project, the road from Loruk to Ginyang, Chemolingot, and Barbelo, had been completed. He disclosed that contracts had already been awarded for the next phase, which will extend the road from Barbelo to Tot, Chesegon, Kopasi River, Lomut, Sigor, and Marichpass.
“This is an important security and development corridor that will connect the road from Nakuru through here to West Pokot,” he explained.
He further elaborated that the road from Kopasi River would extend to Lomut in West Pokot, then to Sigor and Marichpass.
Ruto Responds to Critics
Ruto dismissed those questioning his focus on road projects, arguing that infrastructure is essential for economic growth and accessibility.
“Usijali, unajua watu wanasema mimi ni yule mtu wa barabara, na hiyo barabara ni kazi mzuri. Usikuwe na wasiwasi, kuna wengine hawajui barabara ya kuenda kwao iko wapi,” he stated.
Tribute to Senator Cheptumo
While addressing mourners, Ruto paid tribute to the late Senator William Cheptumo, describing him as a selfless leader who devoted his life to public service.
“I join this multitude in bringing my condolences, especially from my family, my wife and children, and many other Kenyans, on behalf of the entire government, to Senator William Cheptumo’s family,” Ruto said.
He lauded Cheptumo for his dedication to his people and his strong Christian values, emphasizing his legacy in leadership.
“I can say without fear or contradiction that William Cheptumo was a great leader and that he loved his people. He was very passionate about his people. And he didn’t take for granted his responsibilities as a leader,” Ruto added.
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Ruto Claps Back at Critics as He Highlights Key Road Projects in Baringo
