President William Ruto has made it clear that his priority is delivering change, not securing a second term in 2027. Speaking at the Third National Executive Retreat in Kajiado County, Ruto defended his administration’s ambitious agenda and dismissed claims that the government had made unrealistic promises during the campaign.
“We promised a lot, but we will deliver,” he said confidently, addressing government officials at the two-day event held at the KCB Leadership Centre. The retreat reviewed the progress of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which forms the core of Ruto’s development blueprint.
While acknowledging the challenges facing his administration, Ruto said he would not shy away from making tough decisions. He revealed that some advisers had suggested delaying more difficult reforms until a possible second term. However, he rejected that idea.
“I’ve been told I picked up too many tough issues. Some said I should have waited for my second term. But we’ve avoided hard choices for too long,” he explained. “Our focus is not the next election. Our focus is the transformation of Kenya.”
Ruto responded directly to criticism that his administration overpromised during the campaigns. “We didn’t overpromise. Everything we committed to is achievable,” he said, pointing to the government’s manifesto as a clear roadmap for what lies ahead.
One key area he emphasized is affordable housing. He assured the public that allocations will be done fairly, without discrimination. Inspecting the Kibera Soweto East Zone B Affordable Housing Project, Ruto stated that residents of the area would be prioritized. “You will be given the first opportunity to own these houses before anyone else,” he said, promising a transparent and inclusive process.
He also addressed concerns about housing levies, which have sparked debate. Despite pushback, Ruto insisted the program would proceed with fairness and aim to serve all Kenyans equally. “Allocations will not be based on tribe. Every deserving Kenyan will benefit because our goal is unity,” he stated.
In the health sector, Ruto reported major progress with the new Social Health Authority (SHA). So far, over 23.3 million Kenyans have registered, with nearly 100,000 signing up in just one day, Monday, June 9, 2025. He said this shows growing confidence in the government’s universal healthcare system.
Ruto rebranded the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) to Taifa Care, highlighting its role in providing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Unlike the older NHIF, which he argued mostly benefited salaried workers, Taifa Care is designed to cover all Kenyans equally.
“Everyone who registers is eligible for all health services,” Ruto said. “If you want to secure affordable and reliable healthcare for yourself and your family, register now.”
By Lucky Anyanje
