Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has come to the defense of President William Ruto amid growing public criticism over unfulfilled government promises.

Speaking during a church service in Soweto on Sunday, Sakaja urged Kenyans to exercise patience, arguing that the challenges facing the country are longstanding and cannot be resolved in two years.

Sakaja compared the current administration to previous regimes, emphasizing that issues such as poor infrastructure and economic challenges have existed for decades.

He cited the example of the Mau Mau Road, noting that despite leadership transitions since independence, the project has yet to be completed.

“The other day I went to Murang’a, and people asked me about Mau Mau Road. Mau Mau stopped fighting in 1963, and we’ve had four presidents since then. Yet, in just two years, people expect Ruto to solve a 60-year problem. Is that fair?” he asked.

The Governor expressed optimism, stating that progress is being made. He pointed out that projects such as the Thika Road and the Nairobi Expressway were completed in later stages of previous administrations, indicating that transformative work takes time.

President Ruto, who also attended the service, echoed Sakaja’s sentiments, reaffirming his commitment to delivering on his promises.

He highlighted his administration’s focus on food security, universal healthcare, and affordable housing, expressing confidence in Kenya’s potential for transformation.

“By the grace of God, this country will not remain the same. Kenya will change, and we will deliver,” said Ruto.

Sakaja further proposed the construction of a sports stadium on the 32-acre Jacaranda grounds, arguing that it would enhance socio-economic activities in the area.

The calls for patience come as Kenyans continue to grapple with the effects of economic reforms and rising costs of living.