NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto on Friday publicly praised ODM leader Raila Odinga for delivering what he called a “wise and timely” address to top government officials during the Third National Executive Retreat held in Kajiado County.
In a statement shared on his official X account, Ruto lauded Raila’s keynote remarks, saying they reflected the very principles guiding the Kenya Kwanza administration’s governance style.
“We have been honoured by the apt wisdom, insights, and ideas shared by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during his address at the Third National Executive Retreat,” Ruto posted.
The President singled out Raila’s call for leaders to prioritize what is right over what is merely popular—a message Ruto said mirrors his administration’s core values.
“His ringing call for leaders to focus on what is right rather than what is popular strongly resonates with the values of our administration,” the President said.
We have been honoured by the apt wisdom, insights, and ideas shared by former Prime Minister @RailaOdinga during his address at the Third National Executive Retreat.His ringing call for leaders to focus on what is right rather than what is popular strongly resonates with the
Raila’s Vision Aligns with Government Agenda
Raila’s speech touched on several national development priorities, including the affordable housing programme, fresh produce markets, and airport expansion—initiatives at the heart of the Kenya Kwanza economic transformation agenda.
He also urged national leaders to embrace emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence, and commended the Ruto administration’s efforts in digitising government services.
“He also discussed the useful role of technology in national transformation, including Artificial Intelligence, and commended the government’s continued digitisation of services,” Ruto noted.
Growing Collaboration Between Ruto and Raila
Raila, who earlier this year signed a formal cooperation agreement with the Kenya Kwanza government, addressed the retreat at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen on Wednesday, marking a rare but symbolic appearance alongside Cabinet Secretaries and senior technocrats.
His attendance reflects an evolving relationship with President Ruto, as the two former political adversaries appear to find common ground on policy and national unity.
Retreat Focuses on Development and Service Delivery
The high-level retreat, chaired by President Ruto, aims to evaluate progress on flagship programmes, strengthen intergovernmental coordination, and realign focus on key service delivery goals.
This year’s retreat is centered on seven core pillars:
- Economic turnaround
- Agricultural productivity
- Universal health coverage
- Education reform
- Government digitisation
- MSME growth
- Youth job creation
