Nairobi County Assembly members from the Jubilee Party have condemned ODM leader Raila Odinga's public criticisms of Deputy President William Ruto, labeling the remarks as inappropriate and disrespectful.
The legislators, including Waithaka Constituency MCA Antony Kiragu, criticized Raila's comments during a Devolution Conference in Kirinyaga in 2019. They argued the statements undermined government initiatives and the Jubilee Party's agenda.
Raila questioned the accuracy of reports regarding a Sh7 billion loss in a project, disputing claims of a Sh21 billion figure. He stated, "If somebody is stealing money, do not go and shout there that Sh7 billion is nothing. Sh7 billion is not pocket change!"
The MCAs described the remarks as insensitive and emphasized the need for respect toward Ruto, who they said has a duty to represent government projects. "We demand respect for the Deputy President and the Jubilee Party," they stated.
Nominated MCA Leah Naikane defended President Uhuru Kenyatta's anti-corruption efforts and his political alliance with Raila, adding, "It is unfair for Raila to preach water but drink wine... We will not entertain a witch hunt targeting the DP."
The legislators accused Raila of orchestrating the attacks to weaken the Jubilee Party, noting Ruto's role in securing the party's electoral victories. They also criticized fellow Jubilee leaders for remaining silent during the event.
Kiragu remarked, "In time, people will remember the silence of friends more than the words of enemies," referring to Jubilee officials who did not respond to Raila's accusations.
