This archive report was first published on 30 September 2019.
Deputy President William Ruto has maintained his unwavering stance against plans for a referendum to amend the Constitution, citing self-serving interests behind the push for constitutional changes.
Speaking in Vihiga County at two separate fundraisers for several churches, Ruto warned those crusading for constitutional amendments to prepare to suffer the same fate as the Punguza Mizigo (amendment) Bill, 2019, which has so far been rejected by seven county assemblies.
The bill, sponsored by Thirdway Alliance leader Ekuro Aukot, is currently being debated by the 47 county assemblies and has since been rejected by MCAs in Nyamira, Siaya, Kirinyaga, Homa Bay, Muranga, Kiambu, and Kisii.
Uasin Gishu County Assembly, which is Ruto's backyard, is the only one that has so far approved the bill.
Ruto's remarks appeared to suggest a change of heart after indications that the Tangatanga group associated with him supported the Punguza Mizigo initiative.
He also took issue with a section of leaders seeking to expand the executive by creating more positions, saying such proposals are aimed at benefiting a few people at the expense of development and matters affecting the public.
On the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), Ruto said: "We cannot be speaking about leadership every time. This will make us look selfish because we will be avoiding pertinent matters affecting our people."
