Leaders hailing from the Azimio la Umoja Coalition have expressed sharp criticism of President William Ruto's unyielding stance against a select group of tycoons who stand accused of wielding undue influence over the sugar sector.
During his recent visit to Western Kenya, President Ruto made waves with his resolute declaration that he would not tolerate the alleged cartel-like activities of certain individuals within the industry.
The Challenge Laid Down: In a direct challenge, the President gave these individuals three stark options: to leave the country, face potential imprisonment, or metaphorically "go to heaven."
Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd in Nzoia, Bungoma County, the Head of State declared, "Cartels are present. I have instructed them to exit. The company belongs to the people, and we will streamline its operations. There's no case here."
Controversial Remarks: However, these comments raised eyebrows among opposition leaders who argued that such statements amounted to a form of public trial. Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, in a morning interview, emphasized that accused individuals deserve the chance to be heard in a court of law.
Addressing Citizen TV, Onyonka conveyed, "I sincerely implore our President. His actions and words carry weight. When a President singles out an individual, irrespective of whether they've violated the law or not, it places that individual in a position of perceived injustice."
Presumption of Due Process: Philip Etale, the ODM Communications Director, echoed this sentiment and pointed out that President Ruto's rhetoric did not align with the conduct expected of a Head of State.
President Ruto's remarks on potential harm towards Sugar tycoons followed closely on the heels of the abduction and subsequent release of Jaswant Rai, a billionaire from the Rai Group. Rai's release was accompanied by the arrest of the CEO of a local bank accused of assisting Rai in money laundering, carried out by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers.
President Ruto Accuses Rai: President Ruto openly attributed Rai's kidnapping to the billionaire's alleged attempts to undermine the government's efforts to rejuvenate the sugar industry in Western regions. He contended that privately-owned sugar mills were thriving, while state-operated mills were burdened with debts. Consequently, he annulled a debt of Ksh117 billion owed by five millers, cautioning against investing in unprofitable ventures.
Assurance Amidst Tensions: "Worry not, I'm committed to ensuring all is well. No one will interfere," President Ruto reassured the residents regarding the revitalization of the sugar sector.
He emphatically dismissed concerns of external influence, stating, "Do not be concerned about someone approaching us. Someone mentioned Rai to me. Who is Rai? No, that's not feasible," as he addressed the public at Uwanja Ndege Grounds in Bungoma County.