In the wake of allegations swirling on social media, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed has come forward to clarify the recent relaunch of the Metembe-Marani-Kegogi-Nyaore Road by President William Ruto during his visit to Kisii County. The accusations, primarily raised by Lawyer Morara Kebaso, suggested that local leaders had misled the public by celebrating the relaunch of a project initially launched during the tenure of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Kebaso, known for his active role in verifying government projects, voiced his concerns online, accusing leaders of repackaging old projects for political gain. "Abagusii leaders were busy simping and praising Ruto like a Lord. This is Metembe-Marani-Kegogi-Nyaore Road. Launched in 2016 by Uhuru, Launched again juzi when Ruto came to Kisii. Those leaders should stop playing with our minds. Which development did the president bring to Kisii? Tell us," Kebaso remarked, sparking widespread debate.
Road’s Rocky History Explained
In response to these claims, Hussein Mohamed provided a comprehensive explanation of the road’s complex history. According to the State House Spokesperson, the 64.6 km road, traversing Kitutu Chache North and South constituencies in Kisii County, was originally launched by former President Uhuru Kenyatta on August 5, 2016. However, despite the initial fanfare, the project ran into significant delays, leading to the eventual termination of the original contract in May 2023.
Hussein revealed that the project had barely reached halfway completion by the time of its termination, with only 27 km of the road constructed over a staggering 77 months, far exceeding the planned 30-month timeline. This led to the decision to re-tender the project, with a new contract awarded in March 2024 and construction resuming in June 2024.
Ceremony or Marketing Stunt?
Hussein also addressed the concerns about the recent ceremony presided over by President Ruto, noting that it was a formal event to mark the start of work under the new contract. He downplayed the significance of the relaunch, explaining that project launches are often ceremonial and that critics should not be overly concerned with plaques or titles. "A project launch is often just a ceremonial event, and it sometimes occurs after works have already begun, hence the phrase ‘OFFICIAL LAUNCH’. Don’t overly concern yourself with plaques," Hussein stated.
To counter further criticism, Hussein invited the public to visit sections of the road, particularly the Kegogi-Sombogo-Marani-Ititi area, where construction work is actively underway. He emphasized that the government remains committed to completing the road and delivering on its promises to the people of Kisii.
