Former Roots Party running mate Justina Wamae has taken a swipe at President William Ruto over his recent comments comparing livestock vaccination to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Wamae accused the president of being out of touch with ordinary Kenyans, claiming his administration prioritizes profit over the people’s welfare.
In a statement shared via her X account on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, she argued that while the COVID-19 vaccine was widely accepted because people could see other countries embracing it, the same cannot be said for livestock vaccination.
“The argument that we all got the COVID vaccine is not comparable. Even from watching TV, Kenyans could see other countries getting vaccinated. Perhaps this administration can show Kenyans other countries vaccinating their livestock. That might cool the temperatures,” Wamae declared.
She used a Bible verse to illustrate her point, comparing the government’s policies to “giving a serpent when asked for a fish.” She accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of making decisions that appear self-serving, leading Kenyans to reject nearly every policy proposal.
The head of state vowed to continue with the planned vaccination of bovine animals despite the hiccups.
Speaking during the annual Kimalel Goat Auction in Baringo County on Tuesday, December 18, 2024, the president dismissed critics as “ignorant” and accused them of spreading disinformation to derail Kenya’s access to international markets.
“Chanjo inafanywa hata ya binadamu. Surely, if it is not dangerous to vaccinate people, why is it dangerous to vaccinate animals?” Ruto posed.
The president explained that the vaccination initiative aims to reduce disease prevalence in livestock, which has been a barrier to exporting meat and leather products.
“Last year, we exported dairy products worth Ksh.4.9 billion, which increased to Ksh.7.4 billion. We want to do the same for meat and leather. Wanataka umaskini iendelee Kenya,” he said.
Ruto talked tough on those rejecting the planned initiative accusing them of engaging in “cheap talk” without offering solutions. He dismissed claims that livestock vaccination could have negative effects, humorously addressing a bizarre rumour about cows no longer passing gas.
“Ati itazuia ng’ombe kunyamba. What kind of nonsense are we engaging in? Give us a break. Wewe ulisikia wapi? I am speaking to you as a scientist. Vaccination is about disease control,” the president said.
