The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kisii Governor Simba Arati has defended his cooperation with President William Ruto’s administration, insisting that development and service delivery are more important than political rivalry ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during consultative forums attended by community leaders, teachers, clergy, women groups, boda boda riders, community policing teams and social media influencers across Kisii County, Arati said leaders should be judged by the impact they make on people’s lives rather than their political affiliations.
He said his administration has prioritized projects aimed at improving residents’ welfare, including bursaries for needy students, free milk programs for ECDE learners, road construction and expanded healthcare services.
Arati noted that the county bursary initiative has helped many vulnerable children stay in school despite the harsh economic situation affecting numerous families.
“We committed ourselves to delivering development, and that is what we are doing. Through bursaries, many parents are getting support in educating their children, while ECDE learners continue to benefit from the free milk program that boosts both nutrition and learning,” he said.
The governor added that the milk program introduced in ECDE centres has contributed to better nutrition among children and improved school attendance.
He also pointed to ongoing road infrastructure projects, saying they have improved access in rural areas, eased transport of farm produce and stimulated local business growth.
Arati explained that working closely with the national government was necessary to secure more development projects and funding for Kisii County.
“There is pressure on leaders to oppose the government, but my main concern is the wellbeing of the people. Development should never be sacrificed because of politics,” he stated.
According to the governor, the collaboration with Ruto’s administration has fast-tracked key projects in health, education, water and road sectors, including the construction of Gusii Stadium and the upgrade of Suneka Airstrip.
He urged residents to avoid political divisions and instead focus on tackling challenges such as poverty, unemployment and poor infrastructure through unity.
Groups that attended the meetings commended the governor for initiating visible development projects and fostering cooperation between county and national governments.
Participants said residents were more concerned about effective service delivery and economic empowerment than constant political disputes.
