ODM Dismisses Criticism of President Ruto’s US Trip as Fake, Highlights Gains for Kenya
The Orange Democratic Movement has rejected a statement criticizing President William Ruto’s US trip, labeling it as fake.
The authors of the criticized statement made various claims about the overall benefits of the trip and the composition of the delegation accompanying the president.
“Just fake,” the Raila Odinga-led party stated on X, offering no further details.
Several opposition MPs are part of Ruto’s inaugural US state visit, the first such visit by an African head of state in 16 years.
Among the delegation are National Assembly Minority Leader Opiyo Wandayi, Senate counterpart Steward Madzayo, Governors Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), and Wavinya Ndeti (Machakos), along with other opposition leaders.
The inclusion of these opposition figures has caused a stir in political circles, especially since ODM has previously taken disciplinary actions against MPs who collaborated closely with the Kenya Kwanza government.
Five MPs challenged their expulsion in court, overturning ODM’s decision to oust them for meeting Ruto at State House.
ODM had expelled Elisha Odhiambo (Gem), Caroli Omondi (Suba South), Gideon Ochanda (Bondo), Phelix Odiwuor (Lang’ata), and Kisumu Senator Tom Ojienda for what Raila described as a betrayal due to their visit to the President against ODM’s stance.
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Despite the fake letter and skepticism regarding the trip’s benefits to Kenya, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura stated on Thursday that the visit has yielded significant gains for Kenya.
“President Ruto’s state visit has brought over Sh500 billion in grants, equipment, and projects for Kenyans, including Sh3.2 billion for the Kenya Literacy Program for grades 1-3, 16 helicopters to enhance regional peace and security, and Sh291 million to improve prisons,” Mwaura stated.
A fact sheet from the White House on Wednesday indicated that the US government has committed Sh203 million to Kenya to support anti-corruption efforts.
The report said the Biden administration has earmarked $500,000 (Sh65.5 million) for a new Fiscal Integrity Program to make county budget processes more transparent and inclusive, increasing citizen engagement.
It also mentioned that a similar amount will support civil society actors in expanding the reach and effectiveness of anti-corruption advocacy, while another $550,000 (Sh72 million) will support Kenya’s anti-corruption legal processes, including witness protection.
On Wednesday, Ruto received a state arrival ceremony at the White House, complete with a 21-gun salute, marking the second day of his state visit.
ODM Dismisses Criticism of President Ruto’s US Trip as Fake, Highlights Gains for Kenya