President William Ruto has boldly declared himself the most accomplished leader in
Kenya’s history, citing his extensive political experience, academic achievements, and
youthful energy as the foundation of his results-driven leadership style.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Monday during a meeting with leaders from
Tharaka Nithi County, President Ruto said his unique combination of life experience and
professional background leaves him with “no excuse but to deliver” for Kenyans.
“I’ve served as an MP for 15 years and as Deputy President for 10. I’m not too old, I’m
young and capable. Kenya has never had a President who is also a PhD holder — and
that’s me,” the President said, making reference to his doctorate in Plant Ecology from
the University of Nairobi.
In an emotional reflection on his journey, Ruto recounted his humble beginnings as a
roadside chicken seller, stating that his rise from poverty to the highest office in the land
has deepened his understanding of the struggles many Kenyans endure.
“I was born and raised in the grassroots. I understand Kenya’s problems. There has
never been a President with my level of education, knowledge, and experience. That’s
why I must perform,” he told the gathering.
President Ruto further contextualized his leadership style by drawing inspiration from
Kenya’s past presidents. He said he channels traits from each of the country’s former
Heads of State in his governance approach.
“I have Jomo Kenyatta’s courage, Moi’s understanding, Kibaki’s education, and the
development plan I shared with Uhuru. With that combination, I have no excuse but to
transform the nation,” the Head of State declared.
During the meeting, Ruto made a major announcement regarding the long-delayed
reconstruction of the Nithi Bridge, a notorious blackspot that has claimed hundreds of
lives since its construction in 1985. The bridge, located along the Meru–Tharaka
Nithi–Embu highway, has been a site of countless tragic accidents due to its dangerous
curves and outdated design.
“The redesign is complete, and it’s solid. The bridge needs KSh 7 billion. Procurement
starts tomorrow. The new design straightens the sharp curves, and construction must
be completed before the next general election,” Ruto said, signaling the urgency and
priority of the project.
Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, who attended the State House meeting, lauded
President Ruto for delivering tangible results in a relatively short time in office. He cited
improvements in the economy and infrastructure, especially noting the sharp recovery
of the Kenyan shilling.
“We’ve seen changes never experienced in any previous regime. It’s a miracle you took
office when the shilling was at 169, and now it’s at 130 — and no one is even talking
about it,” Njuki said.
President Ruto also addressed one of his administration’s most debated policies — the
Affordable Housing programme. He defended the initiative as a necessary step in
redefining the country’s long-term socio-economic outlook.
“It’s one of the toughest yet most important decisions I’ve had to make,” he stated. “It’s
only been two years. Wait and see what happens in five, ten, twenty years. You won’t
recognize Kenya,” he added confidently.
The Affordable Housing plan, which has faced criticism from some quarters over its
financing and implementation model, remains a central pillar of Ruto’s Bottom-Up
Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to uplift the low- and middle-
income population through inclusive growth strategies.
Ruto’s remarks and pledges come as he approaches the midpoint of his first term in
office, amid ongoing debates over economic challenges, public debt, and the rising cost
of living. Still, the President remains adamant that his administration’s policies are laying
the groundwork for long-term transformation.
“We are building the future. I understand where we’ve come from, and I know where
we’re going,” he concluded.
