NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has defended the promises he made during the 2022 General Election campaign, insisting they were genuine commitments aimed at transforming the country rather than political rhetoric intended to secure votes.
Speaking on Thursday during the Annual National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, the President said his administration remains committed to implementing the pledges contained in the Kenya Kwanza manifesto despite criticism over the pace of delivery in some sectors.
The President said he understood why many Kenyans had become sceptical about political promises, noting that past leaders had often failed to fulfil campaign commitments.
“I remember when I ran for president, I made many promises. They are in a manifesto,” Ruto told the gathering.
Ruto Recalls Bishop’s Warning
The President recounted a conversation he had with a bishop shortly after winning the 2022 election.
According to President Ruto, the cleric suggested that some of the promises made during campaigns were difficult to achieve and warned him against pushing himself too hard to fulfil them.
“After the elections, one bishop said, ‘We know you have made all these promises and we know they are impossible. Do not push yourself too hard,’” Ruto said.
The Head of State said he did not take offence at the remarks, arguing that broken promises had become a common feature in politics.
“I do not take offence with that bishop. It is the normal course of things,” he added.
‘I Intend to Keep Every Commitment’
The President, however, maintained that the pledges outlined in the Kenya Kwanza agenda were deliberate and formed part of a long-term strategy to transform the country.
“But the commitments I made to the people of this nation were not for purposes of winning the election,” he said.
“They were for transforming our nation, and I have every intention to make sure that I keep every commitment I make.”
The President told attendees that his administration had already achieved significant progress across several sectors since taking office in September 2022.
“Why? Because I believe in God and I believe in this great nation called Kenya,” he said.
“And today I can stand before the people of Kenya and say we have made huge progress.”
Government Faces Pressure Over Economy
President Ruto’s remarks come amid growing public criticism over the rising cost of living, unemployment, and the impact of recent economic reforms introduced by the government.
The Kenya Kwanza administration has defended measures such as tax reforms, housing levies, and changes in healthcare financing, arguing that the policies are necessary for long-term economic stability and growth.
Opposition leaders and sections of civil society have, however, accused the government of increasing the financial burden on ordinary Kenyans while economic hardship persists.
The debate over campaign promises and economic reforms is expected to remain central in Kenya’s political discourse as the country gradually shifts focus toward the 2027 General Election.
Prayer Breakfast Focuses on Unity and Governance
The Annual National Prayer Breakfast brought together political leaders, diplomats, clergy, and invited guests for prayers and discussions centred on governance, reconciliation, and national unity.
The event has traditionally served as a platform for reflection on leadership and the state of the nation, often drawing participation from both government and opposition figures.
President Ruto used the occasion to urge leaders and citizens to remain optimistic about Kenya’s future, saying his administration remained focused on delivering its development agenda despite prevailing challenges.
