Deputy President William Ruto has asked his main challenger in the 2022 presidential contest, Raila Odinga, to respect graduates working in the informal sector.
While campaigning in Narok, the Azimio la Umoja-One Kenya Presidential flag bearer said his government will ensure that graduates secure decent jobs other than struggling in their small enterprises, a statement which many found to be offensive and an insult to Kenyans who start their own businesses.
While interacting with traders from Kiambu County on Monday, May 23, Kenya Kwanza presidential flag bearer William Ruto said the majority of graduates are currently earning their living from small and medium-sized enterprises.
The 2022 presidential front runner said every hustle matters adding that it is the responsibility of both County and National governments to help the small businesses scale up, not belittling them.
“Graduates wengi wanafanya kazi katika micro and small enterprise. hawaitaji patronage, wanahitaji vile biashara yao itapanuka na kuinuka. Wewe kama huna mpango, sisi kama Kenya kwanza tuna mpango,” William Ruto said.
Loosely translated to “Many graduates work in micro and small enterprise. They do not need patronage, they need help on how their business will expand and rise. If you (Raila Odinga) do not have a plan, we as Kenya Kwanza alliance have a plan (to grow every small business).”
On Sunday, May 23, the former Prime Minister found himself on the receiving end after suggesting that the Kenyatta University graduate who owns Big Fish restaurant deserves a better job.
In his speech, the opposition leader said he will ensure graduates get the right jobs after completing their education so that they do not end up doing underserving jobs.
“When Martha and I came together (a week ago), we went to this hotel in Nairobi which is owned by a graduate who did not get a job. He makes fish and other food. This will end.
“I will ensure that learned students will get the jobs that they deserve. We do not want to waste our intellectual property. Those who have studied in universities must get the jobs that they deserve,” Raila said.
The statement had many Kenyans criticizing the ODM leader for suggesting businesses do not pay and that every graduate must settle for employment after school.
