Mumias Sugar bailout not linked to politics, President Kenyatta says

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday said efforts by the government to rescue the cash-strapped Mumias Sugar had nothing to do with politics.

He said those claiming the Jubilee administration was using the issue of reviving operations of the miller and other collapsed factories in western region to win political support were being “insincere.”

President Kenyatta said Jubilee was prepared to serve all Kenyans irrespective who they supported during the last polls.

“We have come here to join hands with leaders from the region to try and address the many problems since the sugar sector is at the heartbeat of the region’s economy,” President Kenyatta said on Wednesday when he handed a Sh1 billion bailout cheque.

Mr Kenyatta was accompanied his deputy, William Ruto, and dozens of MPs from western Kenya.

The MPs on Monday led a delegation to State House during which the President announced the decision to release the cash.

The President said the financial woes facing the miller had been brought about by mismanagement and looting of resources.

ACCOUNTABLE SYSTEMS

He said the government was determined to ensure that proper and accountable management systems were in place to turn the fortunes of the miller.

The Head of State said the government was determined to address the plight of farmers in the region.

“The government would like to see Mumias back in operations so that farmers who have waited for so long before being paid can get their money without further delay,” said the President.

President Kenyatta and Mr Ruto had to stop over along Kenyatta Street in Kakamega Town after residents blocked the way demanding to be addressed before the leaders proceeded for the function in Mumias.

The security personnel had a hectic time trying to control youths waving placards and cheering on the two leaders.

President Kenyatta accused the opposition of fanning what they described as divisive politics and undermining the Jubilee coalition’s development programme.
Mr Ruto said the government was committed to support the youths and women by providing them with credit facilities so that they can start businesses.