DP Ruto denies distributing poisonous relief food in Kikuyu

Deputy President William Ruto has come out to distance himself from the distribution of relief food branded his foundation that has affected residents of Kikuyu Constituency, Kiambu County.

This comes amid reports that several residents of Kikuyu had developed stomach complications with others being hospitalised after consuming the food items packed in bags labelled William Ruto Foundation and Kimani Ichung’wah.

DP Ruto, in a statement through his Communications Secretary David Mugonyi, denied being behind the distribution instead blaming it on “political thuggery.”

The DP further stated that his foundation only delivers relief packages through churches, mosques and with the participation of local leaders.

“Reports from locals indicate that the strange food donations in question were hurriedly thrown from moving vehicles to unsuspecting public with fake branding, that is not from the Foundation,” read the statement.

“The William Ruto Foundation has been donating food in Nairobi and its environs for months now without any incident. It is clear those behind the distribution of the contaminated food are engaging in political thuggery for other reasons.”

The country’s second-in-command slammed individuals behind distribution of the harmful food for what he termed playing with the health and lives of innocent Kenyans to score political points.

“We sympathize with those who have been affected and pray for their speedy and full recovery.  We shall follow up with the local leadership to assist them with medical care as is appropriate in consultation with Health officials,” added the statement.

“It is revolting, despicable, callous and cruel to play with the health and lives of innocent human beings to score political points. Human life and dignity are higher than any political agenda.”

It further added: “Those behind this incident are irresponsible, barbaric savages who have no place in civilized society.”