Uhuru Kenyatta and Ruto skip visits to Central

President Uhuru Kenyatta and his deputy William Ruto yesterday cancelled, at the eleventh hour, earlier scheduled meetings in Central region.

Uhuru was scheduled to attend a church service at Kenol in Murang’a while Ruto was expected at Gatugura Anglican Church in Kirinyaga East sub-county to preside over a harambee yesterday.

Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i, who represented the president, said Uhuru could not make it to Murang’a since he was hosting guests at State House in Nairobi.

Dr Matiang’i, who was accompanied by CSs James Macharia (Transport) and Joe Mucheru (ICT) said the president will later visit Kenol and worship at St Peters ACK Cathedral when he will also commission construction of dualling of Kenol-Sagana Marwa road.

And Ruto's failure to attend the fundraiser was attributed to a clash of events after it emerged he had two scheduled functions at 10am yesterday.

The DP was expected to grace the ordination of Bishop Simon ole Simpai at Naroosura Covenant Church International in Narok at about the same time he was to preside over the fundraiser in Kirinyaga.

Mathira MP Rigathi Gachugua attended the fundraiser and said he was representing the DP.  He explained to congregants why Ruto could not make it.

"DP Ruto will, however, still find time to come over and conduct this harambee early next year. That one I guarantee you," Gachagua told the gathering.

The faithful had organised the ceremony where the DP still sent Sh1 million through an emissary.

Uhuru's visit was highly anticipated with indications of the cancellation only being confirmed shortly after 10am, as the security detail was hastily withdrawn from the highway.

The clergy and church faithful expressed disappointment after it was confirmed Uhuru would not turn up.

Murang’a South ACK Diocese Bishop Julius Karanu broke the news of the cancellation to the clergy and church committee.

The clergy could be seen in small groups speaking in low tones before the presidential security detail drove out.

General Service Unit officers guarding the incomplete Cathedral followed suit.

Central Region Coordinator Wilfred Nyagwanga and Murang’a security committees were left behind.

The main gate reserved for VIPs was opened for the public and at 11am Matiang’i, Mucheru and Macharia arrived.