President William Ruto has stated his firm belief that his political rival-cum-friend, Raila Odinga, would have pursued a similar reform agenda and faced comparable challenges had he won the presidency.
Speaking yesterday at a joint parliamentary group meeting of Kenya Kwanza and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament in Karen, the President offered an intriguing perspective on Kenya’s current political landscape.
A Shared Vision for Kenya’s Future
President Ruto expressed confidence in his assertion, stating, “I am confident that if Raila had become president, he would be doing what I am doing”.
He elaborated that Odinga would have implemented key initiatives mirroring those currently underway in his administration. These include the Social Health Authority (SHA), a significant reform aimed at healthcare provision, and housing programmes.
Furthermore, President Ruto believes Odinga would have undertaken reforms in the education sector, affordable housing projects and initiated crucial changes in agriculture.
This conviction stems from Ruto’s own experience, as he noted, “I know that for a fact because I have been in in school of leadership, that’s the correct position”.
Necessary Reforms and Inevitable Difficulties
The President acknowledged the challenging nature of these reforms. He predicted that Odinga, too, would have experienced significant public backlash and operational hurdles.
“He would be as unpopular or he’d be having the same difficulties that I have today,” Ruto stated.
Despite the potential for public discontent, President Ruto stressed the critical importance of these initiatives for the nation’s progress. He firmly believes that “these are necessary for Kenya to change”.
He added a stark reality check: “Friends, we cannot change the country otherwise”.
Odinga’s Courage in Addressing Extortion
In a notable moment, President Ruto commended Odinga’s courage in confronting a specific issue. He highlighted Odinga’s willingness to speak out against corruption, stating, “And that is why he has the courage to stand here and tell you let us stop the extortion”.
The President’s remarks offer a unique insight into his perception of Kenya’s political leadership, suggesting that regardless of who holds the top office, certain fundamental reforms are indispensable for the country’s development and are likely to be met with similar challenges.
by moses sagwe
