Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has insisted that he will not be silenced for speaking his mind on President William Ruto’s administration, making clear that he supports what is working while remaining critical of what he believes are missteps.

“I have not been silenced, No!” Kaluma declared in a firm statement, pushing back against claims that he had softened his political stance.

The legislator explained that his approach to national politics is rooted in balance, recognising achievements while also pointing out shortcomings. “I support President William Ruto where he does well, just as I also oppose mistakes by his administration,” he said.

Kaluma went on to list sectors where he believes the President has outperformed his predecessors. “President Ruto has done far better than the past regimes in health reforms with SHA, education reforms with CBC and HELB means-testing tool, agriculture with fertiliser and other subsidies, with the Affordable Housing programme, in sports with stadia and motivation of sportsmen and women,” he said.

He further noted progress in stabilising Kenya’s fragile economy. According to him, the government has averted what could have been a devastating debt crisis. “With the economy, by saving Kenya from debt-default while stabilising inflation and exchange rate,” Kaluma stated.

On inclusivity, the MP credited the Head of State for spreading opportunities and appointments across the country. “On inclusivity and equity by allocating resources and spreading development and public service appointments to all regions and ethnic communities of Kenya,” he said.

Kaluma also highlighted Ruto’s willingness to work with opposition leader Raila Odinga on devolution and reconciliation. “By agreeing to the push by Baba Raila Odinga for greater support to devolution and to have the families of all Kenyans who died or got maimed while enjoying their civil liberties compensated to heal the Nation from the wounds of the past,” Kaluma said.

But even as he applauded these gains, Kaluma made it clear he would not shy away from pointing out what he sees as weaknesses in Ruto’s leadership style. “I have criticised the President for speaking a lot, instead of allowing his stellar visible developments to speak for him,” he said.