ODM MP calls on Ruto to fulfil campaign pledges
By Robert Ochoro, July 21, 2025An MP has challenged President William Ruto to fulfil his campaign promises to improve citizens’ lives, saying Kenyans are suffering from rampant poverty, unemployment, and economic hardship.
Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) also called on religious leaders to pray for the country.
He was speaking on Saturday, July 19, 2025, during Bishop Joseph Mairura’s 30th episcopal anniversary and 70th birthday celebrations at Cardinal Otunga National School-Mosocho in Kisii County on Saturday.
“President Ruto pledged in his manifesto to improve Kenyans’ lives. We want him to fulfil these pledges,” Kibagendi said as he delivered a goodwill message from former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
Dr Matiang’i is exploring running for presidency in the 2027 elections. Kibagendi stressed that as an opposition member, he would continue holding the government accountable.
Foster peace
Kisii County Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo, representing Governor Simba Arati, echoed these concerns and appealed to Catholic clerics nationwide to pray for leaders to foster peace, development, and national cohesion. He urged elected officials to fulfil their campaign promises and improve citizens’ lives.
“I urge our bishop and his colleagues across the country to pray for the fixing of problems plaguing our nation. Kenyans elected leaders and deserve better services to ease their daily burden,” Obebo said.
Avoid violence
Bishop Mairura, who celebrated mass with Bishop Joseph Obanyi of Kakamega and Bishop Wilbard Lagho of Malindi, addressed recent protests by appealing to Gen Z demonstrators to avoid violence.
Protests on June 18 and June 25 led to deaths and massive damage to property
He warned that stone-throwing could hurt innocent bystanders and urged youth not to be incited into destroying property or businesses.
Regarding President Ruto’s plan to build a church on the grounds of State House in Nairobi, Bishop Mairura called for the separation of religion and politics, referencing the late Anglican Archbishop Henry Okullu’s 1980 book that provides guidelines on this relationship.
“Our people need to understand the difference between politics and religion. If asked for advice, I will give it privately,” the cleric said.
Bishop Obanyi praised Mairura’s achievements, noting increased parishes, priests, and Christian membership, plus the diocese’s embrace of self-reliance.