Ruto Orders Meru State Lodge by December, Sparks Uproar Over Forest Land Concerns

Ruto Orders Meru State Lodge by December, Sparks Uproar Over Forest Land Concerns

President William Ruto has announced plans to construct a State Lodge in Meru by December 2025, igniting both excitement and controversy. The lodge, meant to support his future visits, is part of a broader push to elevate Meru to city status.

“There Can’t Be a City Here, and I Fail to Show Up”—Ruto Declares

While speaking at AIPCA Church in Meru on Sunday, Ruto emphasized his commitment to the region’s development.

“I have told my people to have a State Lodge ready for me by December,” Ruto said. “We will discuss issues of Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo and the rest,” he added.

He insisted that Meru’s city status must come with infrastructure to match, including a presidential residence.

“We’ve Set Aside Ksh20 Billion”—Massive Investment Unveiled

To accelerate Meru’s transformation, Ruto revealed a Ksh20 billion allocation for road upgrades. Additionally, Ksh800 million will go toward renovating Gakoromone Market.

“Meru will be Kenya’s sixth city after Eldoret,” Ruto affirmed. “We’re investing heavily to make that happen,” he continued.

However, despite the enthusiasm, the location of the State Lodge remains undisclosed.

“Don’t Touch Our Forest”—Green Belt Movement Raises Alarm

Environmental activists have raised red flags over suspected plans to build the lodge on gazetted forest land. The Green Belt Movement (GBM) sent a letter to the Principal Secretary for Forestry demanding clarity.

“We seek urgent clarification on the alleged plan to excise part of Imenti Forest,” the petition read. “This follows an alleged directive by the President,” it added.

The group warned that the forest supports thousands of livelihoods and must be protected.

“We Need Answers”—Public Demands Transparency

Social media erupted with concern over the forest’s fate. Many Kenyans questioned whether alternative sites had been considered.

“Why destroy a forest for a lodge?” asked one user. “We need development, not deforestation,” another posted.

GBM requested a written response within seven days, citing the urgency of the matter.

“How Much Will It Cost?”—Concerns Over Executive Spending

Although the government previously committed Ksh230 million for a lodge in Turkwel, the cost of the Meru lodge remains unclear. Critics argue that such projects inflate the cost of running the Executive.

“We must balance development with fiscal responsibility,” said a Meru resident.

As December approaches, pressure mounts for the government to clarify its plans and protect public trust.

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Ruto Orders Meru State Lodge by December, Sparks Uproar Over Forest Land Concerns