Why Ruto Sees Himself as the Cocktail of Kenya’s Past 4 Presidents

In a notable moment of self-assessment, Kenyan President William Ruto has declared himself the best president Kenya has ever had.

He positioned himself as surpassing his predecessors, highlighting his status as the only PhD holder to occupy the State House.

The President expressed these views while addressing a delegation of leaders from Tharaka Nithi County at State House in Nairobi.

A Unique Self-Appraisal

President Ruto did not shy away from celebrating his own achievements and attributes.

He spoke about his physical and academic background, his journey through the political landscape, and his rural upbringing.

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This self-praise was delivered with confidence, as he emphasized his unique qualifications for the role.

"I have no reason. I don't have an excuse. So, I have to do the difficult job. There has never been an opportunity for a person with the experience I have, with the education I have, with the knowledge I have in Kenya, so I must do it,” President Ruto said.

The Presidential 'Cocktail'

Central to his self-assessment, President Ruto described himself as a combination of the strengths of Kenya's four previous presidents. He articulated how he believes he has integrated their key attributes into his own leadership style.

He stated, “I have combined all the qualities of my predecessors. I have the courage of Jomo. I have the understanding of Moi. I have the education of Kibaki, and I have the plan we shared with Uhuru Kenyatta.”

This blend, according to President Ruto, means he has no excuse but to do everything that needs to be done for the nation.

His primary focus, he noted, is on transforming health provision and transforming our infrastructure development.

“I have no excuse but to do everything that needs to be done in this nation, transforming our health provision, transforming our infrastructure development. That is the assignment that I have,” Ruto stated unequivocally.

Vision for Kenya's Future

The President offered an optimistic outlook on his administration's progress, asserting that he is well on track to transform Kenya.

He projected a future where the country would be unrecognizable due to significant changes.He challenged his audience to imagine the changes Kenya would undergo in the next five, ten, and even twenty years.

"Tell me what's going to happen in 5 years. Tell me what'sgoing to happen in 10 years.Tell me what'sgoing to happen in 20 years. You will not recognize Kenya because it will be a different place because of housing."            

Economic Insights and Local Concerns

The delegation from Tharaka Nithi, whom the President was hosting, had specific requests. Among these was the long-promised construction of the notorious Nithi Bridge.