Nairobi — National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed on Thursday took a swipe at former President Uhuru Kenyatta during the NYOTA Capital disbursement event at Gusii Stadium, praising President William Ruto for his engagement with local communities.

Speaking at the event, Junet, who represents Migori, said he appreciated the direct support from President Ruto, contrasting it with past experiences under Uhuru's administration.

"You know we are not used to government programs like this," Junet said. "Before, former President Uhuru came in 2018 and brought us mosquito nets. We argued, shoes were thrown, and he never came back. But today, President Ruto comes, and we see real action."

Junet was speaking to a crowd of Kisii, Nyamira, and Migori youth gathered to receive funds under the NYOTA program, which seeks to support young entrepreneurs with startup capital and training.

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He noted the significance of the program for local communities, stressing that every amount of money distributed was meaningful.

"If you want to know, there is no small money. Put just a thousand shillings here and you'll see how things explode," he said, referring to the impact the program can have on small businesses.

The Minority Leader's comments came as President Ruto handed out business capital to over 18,000 young Kenyans, promising mentorship, market access, and follow-up support to ensure the funds are put to productive use.

"This is not just a handout," Junet said. "This is meaningful support that will help our people move forward and build their businesses."

The NYOTA program, which Junet praised, forms part of the government's Bottom-Up economic strategy, aimed at empowering young Kenyans from all counties with jobs, business funding, and training.