Ruto says crisis used to settle political scores

Agriculture minister William Ruto has accused some politicians of using the current maize shortage in the country to settle political scores.

Mr Ruto described allegations that five million bags of maize had disappeared from the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) last year, resulting in the nationwide shortage, as “mere propaganda”.

More affordable

He however, admitted that the buck stops with him and he would not shy away from responsibility.

He said that the necessary mechanisms had been put in place to end the crisis.

These, he said, included a reduction in fertiliser prices from Sh6,000 to Sh3,000 and making seed more affordable.

“I want it to be understood that if there is a problem at the ministry, I’m ready to take the responsibility,” he said.

He said it was criminal to sell maize to other countries when famine was ravaging the country and he had instructed the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission and police to investigate and prosecute those found to be guilty.

Mr Ruto said corruption in Government must be tackled head on and politicians must stop blaming previous governments for their shortcomings.

“Some people are saying that farmers are hoarding maize but that is not correct because it is their property and they have a right to decide what to do with it. If they get a better price for it elsewhere, that is fine,” he said.

Mr Ruto was speaking during a fundraise for Mumberes Primary School in Eldama Ravine constituency on Sunday. He said that he was working hard to ensure that issues affecting farmers are addressed.

“Let us stop making accusations against the farmers. Leaders must be ready to make hard decisions if the problems facing Kenyans are to be resolved,” he said.