Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has defended President William Ruto against growing criticism over corruption in government, saying it is unrealistic to expect the vice to be eradicated within three years.
Cherargei noted that corruption in Kenya is a deeply entrenched culture dating back to independence and cannot be solved by quick fixes.
He urged Kenyans to appreciate the government’s progress in other key areas while continuing the fight against graft.
“People are bashing the President, but we must be honest with ourselves. Corruption has been with us since 1963. It will take time and collective effort to root out. We cannot expect miracles in just three years,” he said.
The Senator pointed to ongoing flagship initiatives such as the Affordable Housing programme (AHP) as examples of projects already transforming lives.
He described the scheme as a “success story” that is creating jobs, expanding access to decent shelter, and stimulating economic growth.
According to Cherargei, the government’s development agenda remains on course despite political noise, with infrastructure, agriculture, education, and healthcare also receiving significant investment.
Speaking during a TV interview, the Senator called on leaders and citizens alike to support the reforms and resist the temptation to politicise every challenge.
“The fight against corruption must continue, yes, but we should not ignore the visible gains. The affordable housing programme alone is changing communities,” he added.
His remarks come at a time when the Kenya Kwanza administration is under pressure from opposition leaders and sections of the public to end graft.
Cherargei maintained that the President remains committed to accountability but insisted that patience and unity are necessary if Kenya is to overcome historical governance failures.
Last month, Ruto established a powerful Multi-Agency Team (MAT) on war against corruption (MAT), a few days after he issued a strong warning to corrupt individuals in government.
The new team will spearhead the country’s anti-graft campaign, reinforcing his administration’s “whole-of-government” approach to ending economic crimes.
In a presidential proclamation issued under Executive Order No. 1 of 2025, Ruto stated that the initiative seeks to enhance cooperation, synergy, and coordination among key state institutions charged with combating corruption, money laundering, and related crimes.
The new team draws membership from the Executive Office of the President, and the Office of the Attorney General, National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) are also involved.
Others are Asset Recovery Agency (ARA), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), and the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA).
Other institutions, he said, may be co-opted as need arises.
