Ruto defends higher taxation to help him fulfill campaign pledges

Ruuto noted that with enough resources, all the projects that had been earmarked for implementation will be realised.

"This time round, Kenya must develop if we work together. We will not give room for cheap politics," he noted.

Through the housing fund, which has attracted a lot of attention, Ruto said that once it goes through, it would create jobs for majority of the youths.

"We are targeting close to one million jobs if the project becomes a success. Our youths will no longer be lying idle in the villages. That is why I want every support from the leaders and the people," he added.

He was speaking during the thanks giving service for Transport and Infrastructure Principal Secretary Mungai Mbugua, which was also attended by his deputy Rigathi Gachagua.

Ruto assured Nyandarua residents that the pledges that he made would be met.

They include revival of stalled roads as well as water and electricity connections.

"We will also provide the county with 30 milk coolers as well as putting up a Sh500 million potato cooling plant in collaboration with the county government," he said.

Leaders led by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, his Kikuyu counterpart Kimani Ichungwa and Nyandarua woman MP Faith Gitau said that they are ready to pay taxes as long as they benefit Kenyans.

"I am ready to be taxed Sh10,000 so that my people get free health. Let the naysayers move away from this debate. It is the people who have demanded us to be taxed so that they get services" noted Ichungwa.