By Andrew Kariuki

A viral video contrasting North Eastern leaders flying to join William Ruto on a regional development tour while residents travel through rough terrain by bus has reignited debate over inequality, leadership, and development in the region.

The undated footage, shared online by X user Abdihakim Keinan, shows senior leaders arriving in helicopters and private aircraft, while separate clips capture residents packed in worn-out buses struggling along muddy, damaged roads.

The scenes are believed to have been recorded during the President’s recent tour of Northern Kenya, where he was accompanied by governors Mohamed Adan Khalif, Ahmed Abdullahi, and Mohamud Mohamed, alongside Cabinet Secretaries Aden Duale and Geoffrey Ruku, among other leaders.

The videos have triggered renewed criticism over what many describe as a disconnect between leaders and the realities faced by residents in the region. While officials arrived in high-end transport, locals were seen navigating poor infrastructure, including muddy roads and impassable sections.

Online reactions reflected growing frustration over persistent underdevelopment in North Eastern Kenya despite significant public funding allocations over the years. Critics questioned why basic infrastructure such as roads, healthcare, and public services remain inadequate.

The debate echoes earlier remarks by Rigathi Gachagua, who had previously called for accountability among leaders from the region.

“Our commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public funds allocated to the Northern Kenya counties remains unwavering,” Gachagua said earlier this year.

He further argued that historical marginalisation can no longer be used to justify underdevelopment, citing constitutional reforms and devolved funding mechanisms.

The resurfacing of the footage has intensified public scrutiny, with many Kenyans calling for greater accountability and tangible development outcomes rather than symbolic political visits.

During his tour, President Ruto maintained that the government is committed to transforming Northern Kenya and addressing long-standing inequalities.

“We will transform the entire country through development projects and programmes, and the Northern Kenya region will be at the centre of that transformation,” he said.

The incident has once again spotlighted the widening perception gap between leadership and citizens, as calls grow louder for equitable development and improved living conditions in the region.