President Ruto announces plan to construct state residence in Meru

Meru 

Sunday, 10 September, 2023 

McCreadie Andias 

President William Ruto has revealed the Government’s plan to construct a state lodge in Meru County. 

Ruto accompanied by his deputy Rigathi Gachagua attended an interdenominational Service in Laare stadium Meru County where he promised to spur Development projects in the region. 

“I have managed to get government land here (Meru), I will come to build a state accommodation facility here. Those complaining that I visit Meru a lot should be ready because now I will stay here and solve issues of this region here. There will be no need to travel to Nairobi,” President Ruto said.

The president said the move will help in diversifying the presidency and fostering closer engagement with the people.

The president however did not specify whether the facility will be a state Lodge or state House. 

The president noted that he acknowledged the work of the opposition in correcting the government but he will not give in to coercion or allow demonstrations 

“I have no problem with the opposition. They are doing a good job of correcting the government. I just don’t like violence, chaos, and destruction of property that comes with some of their activities,”

He further noted that the opposition now has a platform to adress their grievances through the ongoing bipartisan talks despite his deputy's remarks which were seen as an act of pouring cold water to the negotiations. 

“We have allowed them in parliament and are working on allowing the setting-up of an official opposition office where they will be free to announce anytime where the government is wrong. If they speak facts I will make adjustments, if not then I will assume,” he adds.

President Ruto further urged leaders from Counties of Kericho, Kiambu and Meru to work together in collaboration with the sitting Governor to give in room for Development and service delivery. 

Kenya has only three state houses, in Nairobi, Nakuru and Mombasa.

There are also seven gazetted state lodges where the president spend the night during his Regional tour which include: Sagana State Lodge in Nyeri, Kisii State Lodge, Kisumu State Lodge, Eldoret State Lodge, and others in Kakamega County, Rumuruti, Chereng'any Constituencies and Garissa County.

If the Meru state lodge is constructed, the official residences of the sitting head of state will count to 10.