President William Ruto defended the construction of a new State Lodge in Meru on Monday, July 13, stating the project matches the importance of all other developments earmarked for the region.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, Ruto questioned why critics oppose the Ksh80 million facility when its cost pales in comparison to the multi-billion shilling projects currently running across Meru County. He added that the lodge will bring the government closer to the residents and help eliminate regional marginalization.
“We are building a State Lodge in Meru for Ksh80 million, and people are asking me whether that is a priority. I have a programme of close to Ksh40 billion in Meru, including affordable housing, markets, roads, and bridges. How is Ksh80 million so important compared to the Ksh40 billion?
“We must get our priorities right and know that it is important to do one as we do the other. In the past, we have had certain areas left behind. That is why I declared that this time, we will build Kenya and no area will be left behind,” Ruto retorted.
President Ruto also defended his administration’s decision to build several sports stadiums across the country. While he acknowledged that critics saw no use for the facilities, he countered that they directly benefit many Kenyans.
“Many people have been asking me whether putting up stadia is a priority. I want to ask them to ask the young people of Kenya that question because you will get the right answer from the country’s sportsmen and sportswomen,” he responded.
Ruto confirmed that the government is currently constructing 34 stadiums nationwide to support talent development and expand opportunities for youth. The Head of State shared these thoughts during a ceremony where he hosted Migori Youth FC at State House, Nairobi.
During the event, he handed over a brand-new bus to the 2025/26 National Super League champions to ease their travel for league matches across the country.
Ruto also revealed that his administration is building a modern stadium in Migori County to provide the team and the wider community with high-quality facilities to nurture local talent.
This defense follows sharp criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who argued against the president’s plan to construct the Meru State Lodge. Gachagua maintained that the Head of State could effectively serve the region using the existing Sagana State Lodge in neighboring Nyeri County.
