Ruto Fires Back at World Bank Report, Defends Government Against Corruption Allegations

President William Ruto has defended his administration against corruption concerns raised in a World Bank report, challenging critics to consider the government’s achievements rather than concentrate on allegations surrounding public projects.

Speaking during a church service at St Mary’s Girls High School in Narok on Sunday, November 15, the Head of State maintained that his administration had taken important steps towards improving transparency, accountability and the management of public resources.

Ruto’s remarks came after the World Bank highlighted concerns about corruption, procurement irregularities and possible financial losses associated with major infrastructure projects in Kenya.

The President particularly addressed concerns surrounding the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway, arguing that the project was initiated and implemented during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.

He questioned why his government was being subjected to criticism over a project whose construction took place before he assumed office in September 2022.

The Head of State also appeared to turn the debate towards opposition leaders, challenging them to explain their positions on the railway project and allegations surrounding its implementation.

The World Bank report estimated that Kenya could have saved approximately KSh117 billion during the initial construction of the Mombasa-Nairobi railway through improved procurement practices and stronger governance systems.

Despite the concerns, Ruto insisted that his administration was committed to addressing corruption and strengthening government institutions.

He pointed to the introduction of electronic government procurement, the expansion of eCitizen services and the Conflict of Interest law as some of the measures his administration had implemented to improve accountability.

According to the President, the government had made progress in reducing opportunities for corruption by embracing technology and improving transparency in public service delivery.

His defence comes amid increasing political pressure over the management of public resources, with opposition leaders frequently questioning government spending and demanding greater accountability.

The corruption debate is also emerging as a major political issue ahead of the August 2027 General Election.

Ruto’s latest remarks are likely to intensify political exchanges between the Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition leaders, particularly over the country’s infrastructure spending and the fight against corruption.

The World Bank findings have once again placed public procurement, accountability and responsible use of taxpayers’ money at the centre of national debate.

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