President William Ruto on Friday, March 24, dared Azimio Coalition leader Raila Odinga to face him personally in an address he gave during his tour in Kisii County.
The visibly angry Head of State argued that Raila's call for protests was a disturbance to the citizens and argued that the Monday, March 20, mass action left hawkers, mama mbogas, and boda boda riders unable to work.
"Touts did not work on Monday as well as traders, boda bodas, and kiosk owners. What are you asking them? If you have a problem, face me. Stop disturbing citizens.
"Let me ask you (citizens), the person who competed with him is me. Why is he disturbing mama mboga? Stop disturbing the citizens, if you have a problem, come face me. I defeated you," he posed.
According to the President, Raila should bring his complaints to him directly and not harass Kenyans who he claimed were busy working on their businesses.
"Stop the arrogance and contempt of ordinary people. Why are you disturbing mama mbogas. What are you asking them? I am the one you ran against. If you have an issue, you face me. Stop going to harass ordinary people," the Head of State added.
In addition, Ruto questioned the residents of Kisii whether they were willing to plan demonstrations as declared by Raila every Monday and Thursday.
"Do you want us to come together or do you want us to plan demonstrations?" Ruto questioned.
On Tuesday, March 21, Raila declared that the nationwide protests will be held every Monday and Thursday beginning Monday, March 27. He argued that the cost of living was too high for a majority of Kenyans and pushed below the poverty line.
"In response to public demand, we shall hold protests every Thursday and Monday beginning next week," Raila declared.
The protests elicited mixed reactions among Kenyans as well as neighbouring countries like Uganda and Tanzania who feared the protests would spill over and disrupt their peace.
Ruto was accompanied by his deputy Rigathi Gachagua among other leaders for the three-day trip in the region.
"Do not allow yourself to be used and destroy your livelihoods. Be more focused on rebuilding rather than the destruction caused by the demonstrations," Rigathi stated.
On the other hand, the President vowed to provide Ksh5 million for the construction of classes at the technical college adding that Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu will oversee the project.
