Ruto Responds to Kalonzo's Criticism

On Tuesday, December 10, President William Ruto criticized his political opponents for consistently attacking government initiatives.

During his speech at the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County, Ruto subtly took aim at Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, particularly over his opposition to the upcoming animal vaccination campaign.

Ruto expressed frustration with certain leaders, accusing them of working to undermine his administration. He stated, “There is an evil spirit in Kenya that is resident in some leaders,” adding that these individuals spread misinformation and oppose government efforts merely for the sake of opposition.

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He continued, “Foot and mouth disease, PPR are diseases we’ve been fighting since I was born. It’s nothing new. So anyone opposing vaccination to eliminate these diseases is simply mad and unreasonable.”

Ruto also criticized leaders who lack experience in livestock farming, urging them to refrain from commenting on the vaccination issue.

This came after Kalonzo, a vocal critic of Ruto, urged Kenyans to reject the government’s vaccination campaign, scheduled to start in January 2025. Kalonzo claimed the vaccines were funded by foreign entities seeking to alter livestock genetics. He raised concerns about the use of vaccines developed abroad, citing their rejection in other countries, including the United States.

Ruto dismissed these claims, asserting that the vaccines would be locally produced, with Kenya having the capability to manufacture its own vaccines. He emphasized that “Kevevapi, our institution, is going to produce these vaccines. We have one of the largest vaccine producers in Africa. Today, we are selling vaccines to other countries.”

Ruto also outlined the government’s broader investment in the livestock sector, highlighting his plan to support the local leather industry. He mentioned that the government had allocated KSh 1 billion for restocking livestock lost during droughts in northern Kenya. Additionally, he revealed plans to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep.