Deputy President William Ruto broke his silence over the controversial donations that left many nursing stomach complications in Kikuyu Constituency.
Through his communications secretary David Mugonyi on Monday, May 26, DP Ruto distanced himself from the donations bearing the name of his foundation.
"It is clear those behind the distribution of contaminated food are engaging in political thuggery for other reasons,” he criticised.
He added that “the foundation only delivers relief packages through formal and known networks such as churches and mosques with the participation of local leaders to ensure track and trace mechanisms."
At least 20 people were taken ill after consuming suspected poisoned foodstuff donated by unknown people in Gikambura, Kikuyu Constituency, on Sunday.
Residents who complained of stomach ache, burning sensation in the throat and tongue, went to Gikambura police post with the contaminated foodstuff. Others affected had gone to Kikuyu police station to record statements.
Those who received the donations told the media that a Toyota Landcruiser vehicle was used to distribute food and essential items which were branded William Ruto Foundation.
Police have since launched investigations into the matter to ascertain the truth.
Kikuyu Deputy County Commissioner Charles Korir stated that the DCI was already looking into the matter.
“Leave the investigations to us. DCI detectives have already launched a probe,” he explained.
Kiambu Governor James Nyoro told the media that a medical team had collected samples of the food for testing and analysis.
On April 11, the government banned uncoordinated food donations and distribution, directing that the activities specifically be conducted through County Governments, County Commissioners and the Covid-19 Emergency Response Fund.
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Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i noted that while the acts were well-intended, they had led to a breach of the social distancing guidelines as set out by Ministry of Health.
