![President William Ruto flanked by Environment CS Aden Duale. [PCS]](https://newstrends.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/President-William-Ruto-flanked-by-Environment-CS-Aden-Duale-PCS.jpg)
President William Ruto has once again dismissed critics of his government, asserting that he is well-equipped to lead the country and make informed decisions.
Speaking during his seven-day tour of the Northeastern region, Ruto addressed locals in Sug Mugdi, Garissa County, where he defended his administration’s performance. He took a firm stance against those questioning his leadership, highlighting his academic credentials.
“You do not lecture me on what I should do when you have little education. I have a PhD, and I know what I am doing!” declared President Ruto.
The president made these remarks while overseeing a livestock vaccination drive, a government-led initiative aimed at ensuring disease-free livestock in Kenya. He announced that his administration would cover the cost of the vaccines, a move intended to boost the region’s livestock sector.
According to Ruto, the vaccination initiative is crucial for expanding Kenya’s meat and milk exports. He questioned why some people opposed the programme, arguing that such critics lacked the knowledge to understand its benefits.
“We sell tea, coffee, flowers, and vegetables. Is there a problem if we sell cows in the overseas market? Why are people opposing these vaccines? I do not know where they went to school because I have a PhD, and I know what is going on in Kenya,” Ruto asserted while addressing the crowd from his official vehicle.
The president further warned that failure to vaccinate livestock would undermine Kenya’s position in both regional and international markets. He urged pastoralists to ignore opposition voices, claiming that most of his critics do not own livestock and therefore should not interfere in the matter.
“I have decided that as we invest in sugarcane, coffee, and tea, we will equally invest in livestock. This will ensure our meat and milk are of high quality, leading to better returns in the market,” he stated.
During his visit to the region, Ruto also announced a significant policy shift regarding the issuance of national identification cards. He declared the removal of the vetting process for residents of the Northeastern region, a move widely welcomed by the local community.
The president described the signing of the Presidential Proclamation on Registration and Issuance of IDs to Border Counties as a step towards ending discriminatory practices.
“If it is about vetting, let all children of Kenya be vetted equally without discrimination. We want the people of Northern Kenya to feel equal to the rest of the country,” Ruto affirmed.
The changes mark a critical shift in government policy aimed at fostering inclusivity and addressing long-standing concerns of marginalised communities in Northern Kenya. The president’s tour has been met with a mix of support and criticism, but his administration remains steadfast in its policy direction.
