NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has pushed back against critics who accuse him of turning State House into a campaign venue, insisting that opening its doors to ordinary Kenyans has raised—not lowered—the dignity of the nation’s highest office.
Speaking during the launch of the Social Health Authority (SHA) sponsorship programme at State House Nairobi on Friday, Ruto dismissed claims that frequent meetings with delegations amount to political rallies.
“Some are complaining that I’ve opened these gates to ordinary Kenyans, saying State House should only be for ambassadors and VIPs. I want to tell them I haven’t lowered the dignity of State House—I’ve elevated the dignity of Kenyans,” the President said in Kiswahili, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Frequent Delegations Stir Debate
In recent months, Ruto has hosted at least 10 delegations at State House, ranging from grassroots leaders and professionals to religious groups. One of the most high-profile gatherings was the Walimu na Rais forum, which drew 10,000 teachers and reportedly cost Sh100 million in a single day.
Just days earlier, the President met delegations from Murang’a and the larger Gusii region. He has also welcomed groups from Meru and Nairobi, including a record 1,100 business associations in August, where empowerment packages worth Sh500 million were announced.
The scale and frequency of these events have raised eyebrows, with critics questioning both the cost to taxpayers and whether the forums double as early campaign platforms ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Opposition Cries Foul
Opposition leaders have been especially vocal, accusing Ruto of transforming State House into a political hub rather than a symbol of national unity. Some have gone as far as labeling the gatherings as “voter bribery in disguise,” arguing that public resources are being used to shore up political support.
Despite the backlash, Ruto appears undeterred, framing the meetings as an exercise in inclusivity and empowerment. His allies argue that the engagements bring State House closer to citizens who have historically viewed it as an exclusive domain for the elite.
As the delegations continue, the debate over whether they are tools for empowerment or thinly veiled campaign rallies is unlikely to fade soon. For Ruto, however, the message is clear: State House is not just for dignitaries—it’s for ordinary Kenyans, too.
