Speaking shortly after Ruto launched the NYOTA youth empowerment programme, Kuria lauded the president for what he described as visible development projects across Nyeri County.
He said the region had benefited significantly from the current administration, particularly through initiatives targeting young people.
Kuria claimed that youths from the Mt Kenya region had received KSh 15,000 each to help them start small businesses and stabilise their livelihoods.
He framed the support as a deliberate effort by the government to empower young people and reduce unemployment at the grassroots.
He urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the funds, saying the programme was meant to uplift families and strengthen local economies.
According to Kuria, such initiatives showed the government’s seriousness in addressing economic challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
The former Cabinet minister also shifted his focus to national politics as the 2027 general election begins to take shape.
He argued that as leaders from the Coast, Western Kenya and Nyanza prepare to sit at the negotiating table, Mt Kenya must not be left out of key political discussions.
Kuria insisted that the region deserves strong representation in any future negotiations that shape the country’s leadership.
He named Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s allies Wamatinga and Wamumbi, as well as himself, as leaders who should speak for the mountain.
He said unity among Mt Kenya leaders would be critical in protecting the region’s interests and ensuring it remains influential in national politics.
The rally formed part of President Ruto’s Nyeri tour and came immediately after the official launch of the NYOTA programme, which aims to provide startup capital to young entrepreneurs.
Ruto’s visit combined development, youth empowerment and political messaging, highlighting the growing focus on alliances and strategy ahead of 2027.
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