NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto paid a courtesy visit to his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, at his Ichaweri home in Gatundu on Monday, marking a significant moment in fostering political harmony.
In a statement issued by State House, the two leaders discussed critical national and regional issues, emphasizing the need for patriotism, unity, and collaboration among stakeholders to steer the country forward.
President Ruto lauded Kenyatta for his leadership in overseeing a peaceful transfer of power following the 2022 elections and acknowledged his continued support for Kenya’s development.
The two leaders also reflected on global challenges—including the lingering effects of COVID-19, the Ukraine war’s disruption of supply chains, and economic pressures—that have strained Kenya’s economic landscape.
While acknowledging these hurdles, they expressed optimism about recent progress, including reduced inflation, stabilized food prices, and the steadying of the Kenyan shilling.
The pair, once dubbed UhuRuto during their Jubilee administration era, also underscored the importance of fostering inclusive governance. They called for broader political consensus to drive Kenya’s growth agenda.
On electoral matters, Ruto and Kenyatta urged the swift resolution of legal hurdles delaying the reconstitution of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).
They emphasized the urgency of appointing new commissioners to ensure smooth electoral operations.
Turning to regional diplomacy, Ruto commended Kenyatta for his ongoing peace-building efforts as the African Union-Kenya Peace Envoy and Facilitator of the EAC-led Nairobi Peace Process.
The leaders reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to spearheading peace and security initiatives in East Africa to resolve conflicts and stabilize the region.
In a show of unity, Ruto and Kenyatta backed Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship, urging both Kenyans and international partners to rally behind his candidacy ahead of the February 2025 elections.
The meeting concluded with the two leaders pledging continued engagement on national priorities and extending warm holiday wishes to all Kenyans.
