President William Ruto has defended his administration's push to build a State Lodge in Meru, insisting the facility is long overdue.

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Speaking during the 60th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service at Burieruri High School in Meru County on June 28, Ruto said the project was a matter of fairness for the region.

He argued that other parts of the country already have presidential facilities and that Meru deserves the same treatment.

"I have the duty to walk and sleep in every part of this country. If there is a State Lodge in other parts of the country, why should there not be a State Lodge in Meru County?" Ruto said.

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He defended the project, arguing that previous administrations had neglected some regions and that his government was committed to ensuring equitable development, including the construction of a State Lodge in Meru.

At the same time, President Ruto took the opportunity to push back at critics who have questioned how frequently he travels across the country, dismissing them as people with too much time on their hands.

He maintained that his countrywide tours are not leisure trips but a constitutional obligation he takes seriously.

“Those who are constantly questioning my frequent travels across the country and outside, I want to tell them that it is my constitutional duty as  President to traverse all parts of this nation and steer development projects,” stated President Ruto.

His defence of the project comes at a time when public debate around it has intensified significantly in recent weeks.

The proposed State Lodge is part of a broader government plan to elevate Meru Town to city status, Kenya's sixth.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke