The Akamba Clan Governing Council of Elders has defended its decision to work with president William Ruto’s administration, insisting that cooperation with the government is the surest path to unlocking long-delayed development projects in the region.
Speaking in Kitui after a meeting with Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, the elders dismissed criticism over their political alignment, saying their engagement with the national government is guided by the interests of the community.
They said Ukambani has for years lagged behind in key areas including water, healthcare, infrastructure and economic empowerment, and argued that the region cannot afford to isolate itself from the government of the day.
Council General Secretary Davis Maeke said the decision to support the current administration is anchored in the council’s constitution, which he noted provides for cooperation with the government as a way of securing tangible benefits for residents.
Maeke said the elders are not engaging the state for political reward, but to ensure the region is included in national development plans.
According to him, Ukambani residents, who have long complained of marginalization, are now beginning to benefit from government programmes, including access to healthcare through the Social Health Authority.
He said improved access to health services remains one of the key gains of working closely with the national administration, especially for communities that have struggled with affordability and availability of care.
Maeke also emphasized that the council’s broader priority is peace, security and stability, both within Ukambani and across the country.
He said meaningful development cannot be achieved in an environment marked by political hostility, community divisions or insecurity.
The elders further argued that development should not be held hostage by partisan politics, saying leaders must be willing to engage any administration that is in power if that engagement delivers results for the people.
They said their position should not be mistaken for blind political loyalty, but as a strategic move to place Ukambani at the centre of government planning and resource allocation.
CS Ruku, who held talks with the elders, also dismissed claims that the meeting was politically motivated.
He said the engagement was purely focused on development and aimed at strengthening cooperation between the government and grassroots leadership structures.
Ruku pledged to bring together all Akamba clan councils, saying unity among elders and community leaders would give the region a stronger voice in pushing for development priorities.
He said fragmented leadership has in the past weakened the region’s bargaining power and slowed down the implementation of key projects.
Among the projects discussed was the long-delayed Thwake Dam, which is expected to improve water supply, irrigation and economic activity in parts of Ukambani.
Ruku assured the elders that the government remains committed to completing the project, saying local support will be critical in ensuring its successful implementation.
The elders said they will continue engaging the government on roads, water, healthcare, security and youth empowerment, insisting that their mandate is to protect the welfare of the community.
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