President William Ruto has dismissed criticisms from leaders who claim that Kenyans he hosts at State House do so only for their stomachs, saying such remarks are unfair and disrespectful.
Speaking during the national commemoration of World Minority Rights Day 2025 at State House, Nairobi, Ruto emphasised that hosting ordinary Kenyans at the official residence is unprecedented.
Traditionally, State House has been reserved for foreign dignitaries, diplomats, and visiting heads of state.
“I do not know why some people do not want ordinary Kenyans here. When I host people here, there are leaders who start insulting me, saying those who have gone there have just taken their stomachs to State House,” the President said.
He added with a touch of humor, “I want to ask, can someone come here without their stomach? Those saying it, do they move around without their stomachs?”
Ruto recounted his recent visits to various counties, noting that he himself partakes of the food offered during such engagements.
“I was in Turkana the other day, they gave me food which I ate. Yesterday, I was in Migori, I did not leave my stomach behind, they gave me food and I ate,” he said.
The President also highlighted the spirit of generosity and the festive season, assuring guests that they would not leave State House empty-handed.
“So if you did not come with your stomach, don’t blame anybody because I have prepared food for you. And as you go home, I must take care of you. It is the Christmas season, a time to celebrate,” he said.
“Can one come to State House and go home without a Christmas gift? I must get you something for Christmas.”
The national commemoration, held annually on 18 December, provides an opportunity to reaffirm the government’s commitment to inclusivity, equality, and justice, ensuring that minority communities enjoy equitable access to opportunities, representation, and dignity.
This year, Ruto hosted 5,000 delegates from marginalised and minority communities. Dressed in traditional regalia, the delegates represented diverse groups including the Ndorobo, Ogiek, Dasenach, Njemps, Walwana, Rendille, Burji, El Molo, Sakuye, Suba, Kuria, Makonde, Shona, and Nubians, among others.
Established by the United Nations, World Minority Rights Day seeks to protect the rights of persons belonging to national, ethnic, religious, and linguistic minorities.
Ruto has consistently defended his approach to State House, dismissing accusations that hosting large gatherings diminishes its dignity.
In September, he rejected claims that campaign rallies and continuous inflows of delegations have degraded the official residence, saying instead that opening the gates elevates the stature of ordinary Kenyans.
Since taking office, Ruto has hosted over ten delegations of grassroots leaders, including professionals and religious leaders, and previously convened 10,000 teachers at State House Nairobi.
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