Deputy President Kithure Kindiki declined to use an umbrella despite heavy rains as he addressed residents in Nakuru, insisting leaders must share in the people’s experiences.
The DP was seen standing in the downpour as one of his aides attempted to shield him from the rain, but he told him off and continued with his address.
“Leave the umbrella alone. If you give me the umbrella alone, what about the residents? If they are getting rained on, we, the leaders, should also get rained on. This rain cannot kill anyone. Rain is a blessing,” Kindiki said.
His remarks drew cheers from sections of the crowd who had also braved the wet conditions to attend the event.
He was addressing residents of Mai Mahiu, Naivasha, in Nakuru County.
Kindiki said the government stands in solidarity with victims of the deadly floods that occurred in Mahi Mahiu on the night of April 29, 2024.
According to the DP, both the 105 families whose homes were swept away and the 56 families whose rented premises were equally destroyed have been allocated land away from the flood path to resettle
He said that all families in each group were supported with a cash token for basic construction materials to hasten resettlement.
“The new settlement has land set aside for a school, a health centre and other amenities.”
Kindiki presided over the issuance of title deeds and relocation grants to families on behalf of President William Ruto.
The DP was accompanied by Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, Principal Secretary Nixon Korir and Nakuru County Leaders led by Governor Susan Kihika.
Later on, he presided over resource mobilisation event for working capital to 39 small trader groups in Mahi Mahiu area and 18 other groups from the Longonot area.
