Ruto Accused of Relaunching Kiharu TVC Project Previously Opened by Ndindi Nyoro
President William Ruto is facing mounting scrutiny following claims that he relaunched a project in Murang’a County that had previously been commissioned by Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro, in a development that has sparked debate over political credit and project ownership.
The controversy emerged during the President’s development tour of the region on Friday, April 24, when he visited Kiharu Technical and Vocational College (TVC). During the visit, Ruto commissioned an ICT hub and presided over the launch of the construction of student hostels at the institution, presenting the developments as part of the government’s broader investment in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
However, questions quickly arose after it emerged that the facility had already been officially launched in March 2026 by Nyoro following the completion of a tuition block funded through the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
At the time, the Kiharu MP presided over the opening ceremony and unveiled a plaque bearing his name, marking the commencement of operations at the institution.
Videos that have since circulated widely on social media appeared to show the plaque being covered with tape during the President’s visit, fuelling speculation that efforts had been made to obscure the earlier commissioning.
In the same footage, residents were later seen removing the tape, revealing Nyoro’s name on the plaque, a development that intensified claims that the President had taken credit for a project initiated at the constituency level.
“The plaque was covered, but people removed the tape and showed that the project had already been launched earlier,” one resident is heard saying in a widely shared video clip.
The incident has triggered debate among political observers and members of the public, with some accusing the national government of overlooking the role of local leaders in development initiatives.
The situation has been further complicated by the absence of Nyoro during the President’s tour of the facility, raising questions about the relationship between the two leaders.
Ruto and Nyoro, once close political allies, have in recent months experienced a strained relationship, particularly following the 2024 Finance Bill protests. The fallout saw Nyoro removed from his position as chair of the National Assembly’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, a powerful role he previously held.
Since then, the MP has emerged as a vocal critic of some government policies, accusing the administration of prioritising political interests over the welfare of citizens.
“There is a need to focus on people-centred development rather than personal interests,” Nyoro said in a past statement, reflecting his growing divergence from the government’s agenda.
Political analysts note that the Kiharu incident highlights the broader tensions within the ruling political circles, particularly as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Before the fallout, Nyoro had been widely regarded as one of the young leaders being groomed for future national leadership, with President Ruto previously acknowledging his mentorship of the MP.
The latest developments, however, suggest a shifting dynamic, with both leaders charting increasingly independent political paths.
Despite the differing perspectives, the incident has reignited discussions about transparency, accountability, and recognition in public development projects.
ALSO READ: 7 Killed After Voxy and Trailer Collide Along Narok–Mai Mahiu Road
Ruto Accused of Relaunching Kiharu TVC Project Previously Opened by Ndindi Nyoro
