Muturi Urges Ruto to Put Politics Aside and Prepare Kenya for El Niño Rains
Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi has called on President William Ruto to shift the government’s attention from political mobilisation and focus on preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains.
Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi has called on President William Ruto to shift the government’s attention from political mobilisation and focus on preparations for the anticipated El Niño rains.
Muturi warned that inadequate preparation could worsen the challenges already facing Kenyans, urging the President to provide direct leadership and ensure government agencies are ready to respond to the expected weather conditions.
According to the former Attorney General, the anticipated rains pose a significant threat to communities already dealing with food insecurity, crop failures and pressure on the health sector. He said heavy rains and possible flooding could further aggravate these challenges if the government fails to act early.
Muturi argued that the government should not wait until hospitals are overwhelmed, crops are destroyed or families are displaced before taking action.
He called on President Ruto to immediately place the full machinery of government on an emergency preparedness footing. He further urged the national government to work closely with county administrations and other relevant authorities to establish a clear and coordinated response plan.
The DP leader said the government should identify areas that are at high risk of flooding and other effects associated with heavy rains. He also called for the mobilisation of emergency resources and readiness checks across government institutions responsible for disaster response.
Muturi emphasised that preparations should go beyond government statements and political announcements, insisting that Kenya needs a practical and operational plan ahead of the rains.
This must be an operational plan—not another press statement, political rally or promise,Muturi said.
He also questioned the decision to maintain political activities and campaign mobilisation at a time when the country could be facing a foreseeable weather-related emergency.
Muturi said the President’s primary responsibility should be protecting Kenyans and safeguarding the country, arguing that political campaigns and electoral competition should take a back seat when the safety of citizens is at stake.
The former Attorney General’s remarks come amid growing concern over the potential effects of heavy rains on infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare services and livelihoods. Areas that are already vulnerable to flooding and other climate-related disasters could face greater challenges if preparations are delayed.
Muturi challenged the Ruto administration to demonstrate its preparedness before the rains begin rather than waiting for disasters to occur before responding.
He maintained that early planning would allow authorities to identify vulnerable communities, deploy resources in advance and reduce the potential loss of lives and property.
The campaign can wait. Kenya cannot. The political season can wait. The safety of Kenyans cannot, Muturi said.
His appeal comes as the government faces increasing pressure to demonstrate its ability to respond effectively to emerging national challenges while balancing political activities with disaster preparedness.
