President William Ruto has once again defended his choice of cabinet nominees, saying it represents the face of the country and will help him achieve his government's flagship projects.

Addressing residents in Bura, Mwatate constituency, Ruto defended his move to include opposition leaders in his cabinet.

He said the current situation has allowed him to review his priorities and bring everybody on board adding that restructuring his cabinet has allowed him to be more inclusive.

“As a democratic nation, we should raise above party and ethnic politics for our country to move forward. That is why I have decided to form a more inclusive government as many Kenyans have requested,” said Ruto.

Ruto however lamented that some of the projects which had been earmarked for completion might be delayed because of budget cuts occasioned by the finance bill rejection.

He said he would still push for the allocation of resources to complete the projects.

“Some people who wanted us to fail. They incited Kenyans to reject a bill that would see completion of these projects. Although all is not lost, I am committed to completing development projects in this region,” said Ruto.

The President, who earlier handed over a school bus to Kombolio Secondary School in Mwatate, further promised a number of projects to the residents of the Coastal region.

The projects include the construction of 2,000 affordable houses in Voi and Wundanyi, as well the construction of at least 3,000 hostel units for students in Taita Taveta University, Taita Taveta National Polytechnic and Mwatate Technical Polytechnic.

The Head of State further disclosed that he has set aside Ksh.500 million for electricity connection in Mwatate where at least 10,000 new residents will be connected to the grid.

The President once again committed to creating more gainful opportunities for the youth in the country.

“Leaders have an obligation to mobilize the youth to seize these opportunities. At least 1,000 youths are leaving the country every week for overseas jobs,” he said.

Earlier, President Ruto attended a church service where he was joined by local leaders and congregants.