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President William Ruto, who rose through Youth for KANU ’92 (YK’92)—the well-resourced youth mobilisation outfit that helped Daniel arap Moi win Kenya’s first multiparty election in 1992—has repeatedly been described by analysts and media as drawing on that era’s playbook and broader Moi-era tactics. YK’92 Background and Ruto’s Role In 1992, facing the end of one-party rule and a fragmented but energised opposition, Moi’s KANU created YK’92 (led by Cyrus Jirongo, with involvement from Moi family members and others).  It targeted unemployed youth and the informal sector with promises of opportunity, backed by heavy state resources, cash handouts (the Sh500 note became known as a “Jirongo”), grassroots zoning of strongholds and opposition areas, defections to create momentum, and aggressive mobilisation. Ruto, then in his mid-20s and fresh from the University of Nairobi, served in the secretariat (often described as a disciplined organiser handling minutes and operational work)....

  President William Ruto has faced sharp public and online backlash over remarks made during the August 12, 2026, launch of a national conversation on Kenya’s future beyond Vision 2030. At the event at the KICC in Nairobi, Ruto contrasted Vision 2030, developed under the pre-2010 constitutional order, with the current process under the 2010 Constitution.  Clips circulating widely online captured him saying something to the effect of: it is important to engage the exercise “in the context of a new constitution that does not request us to consult the people… No, it is mandatory to consult the people. Background of the remarks Supporters and some clarifications, including from accounts reviewing fuller context, argue Ruto was referring to the 2010 Constitution itself as the “new” framework that makes public participation mandatory (unlike the older order under which Vision 2030 was crafted, where consultation was more discretionary).  He has repeatedly emphasized...

The National Infrastructure Fund, recently assented to law by President William Ruto, is set to mobilize nearly Sh5 trillion over the next decade to finance key projects.  Some of the priority projects include: 1. Expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA): The first major project to be funded, with Sh20 billion allocated from the Kenya Pipeline Company IPO proceeds. 2. Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension: Plans to extend the SGR from Naivasha to Kisumu and Malaba, enhancing regional connectivity. 3. Rironi-Naivasha-Mau Summit highway: A 170km road project aimed at improving transportation and reducing congestion. 4. Loosuk-Lessos power transmission line: A 400 kV transmission line to increase grid capacity and support industrial growth. 5. Galana-Kulalu irrigation project: Aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and food security. 6. Dams and water infrastructure: Projects like Soin Koru Dam, Mwache Dam, and others to support irrigation and domestic water suppl...

  President William Ruto has officially opened the Siaya Community Digital Hub in Bondo Town, Siaya County, with a strong message to the youth.  Ruto emphasized that the hub will empower young people through digital innovation, skills training, and job creation, bridging the digital divide and fostering economic growth.  The hub offers internet services, computers, and digital skills training, aiming to equip youth with relevant skills to participate in Kenya's growing digital economy. Ruto highlighted the government's commitment to expanding digital infrastructure and supporting tech-driven development, with plans to establish ICT hubs in every ward, providing access to digital jobs and e-commerce opportunities.  The initiative is part of the government's Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy pillar under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. In his tour, President Ruto was accompanied by ODM Party Leader Dr Oburu Oginga, ODM chairperson Gladys Wanga, En...

  President William Ruto has requested security officers to exercise utmost restraint at places of worship, especially amid rising political tensions in the country ahead of the 2027 polls.  He condemned the violence at a church service attended by his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, in Othaya, emphasizing that places of worship should remain apolitical and peaceful. Ruto stated, "All arms of security must ensure our places of worship are shielded from unnecessary and retrogressive battles and politics". The attack on Gachagua, who was forced to flee the church, has widened the rift between Ruto and mainstream churches, with the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) who have accused the police of violating the Constitution and desecrating places of worship by attacking worshippers. "Let us not bring politics, hatred or chaos in churches. We want our churches to be a place of peace and seeking God," Ruto added. The attack on Gachagua, which involved teargas a...

  President  William Ruto  made a notable visit to Kondele, a densely populated area in Kisumu County, Kisumu City, on January 30, 2026. This appears to be a recent event, with reports and social media posts describing his arrival and reception as triumphant and enthusiastic. Kondele, historically associated with strong support for opposition figures like Raila Odinga and occasionally hostile to Ruto during past campaigns (including an infamous 2021 stoning incident during his deputy president days), showed a markedly different reception this time. Large crowds turned out, with videos and posts capturing jubilant residents welcoming him, jostling for glimpses, and showing strong enthusiasm. Key highlights from the visit: Ruto addressed a massive crowd in Kondele, focusing on youth empowerment , rejecting tribal politics, and promoting unity through the broad-based government (often referencing the Kenya Kwanza-ODM collaboration). Social media buzz included phrases like "...

  President William Ruto is among the esoteric few crop of ambitious leaders that Kenya has ever had. Historical comparison between Ruto and the third president Mwai Kibaki is evident in their landmark blueprints, that is 'Vision 2030' and the 'Singapore dream'. Vision 2030 is still in the pipeline. Both visions can be achieved if proper strategies are put in place and curtail rampant graft that still rears its ugly head in the public service. The president has an arduous task of convincing the opposition in his endeavors towards making Kenya a developed State.  As soon as he achieved power, Ruto unveiled the affordable housing project as the first initiative towards making Kenya a world class country of equal stature to Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. Ruto has also advocated for sophisticated digital infrastructure to reduce unemployment among the youth, with a majority of them utilizing the cyber space to make their ends meet. However, all efforts that the govern...

  President William Ruto is facing a major litmus test since assuming office. The forthcoming by elections is a must to win in order to scale up his popularity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ruto's major headache is the united opposition. Going by precedence the ascendance of Ruto to presidency was triggered by mini-polls where he managed to humiliate the then president Uhuru Kenyatta, where Kawanjiku won the Kiambaa seat on a UDA ticket among other key regions. Malava and Mbeere constituencies have attracted high voltage political campaigns. Both the government and the united opposition aren't leaving anything to chance. The united opposition bringing together Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DP leader Justin Muturi, DAP-K's Eugene Wamalwa and DCP's Rigathi Gachagua has made serious political forays across different regions where by-elections will held. on Friday, Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Dr Fred Matiang'i joined the opposition leaders at Malava where t...

  President William Ruto will seek his second and last term in the 2027 general election. Definitely, the president will factor in what you bring to the table in awarding the contested post of the second precious job in the country.  In 2022, Ruto chose Rigathi Gachagua to woo the populous agikuyu votes. Now that the region is against him, after Gachagua ouster, he will stand in the rift facing the lake.  Most likely, Ruto will choose his principal assistant from Luo Nyanza . This strategic choice will be to appease the spirit of Raila Odinga and inherit his orphaned support base. Ruto will definitely not choose Gladys Wanga, John Mbadi or Opiyo Wandayi. His choice will be largely base on post-Raila era and the numbers you attract. Prof Kithure Kindiki will not be Ruto's choice in 2027 because he comes from a background that has less electoral votes. Post- Raila Odinga era The exit of Raila Odinga was a big blow to president William Ruto. The president knew well that h...

 President William Ruto allies want ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna to be etched out from ODM and snatched his party position. The call for his ouster came immediately after the burial of ODM party leader Raila Odinga. This is after Sifuna showed open defiance to the broad-based government and insisted that  ODM will have a presidential candidate in 2027 to compete President William Ruto. While addressing mourners in Bondo, Sifuna reiterated that ODM must produce a presidential candidate in the next general election. His utterance seem to have rattled Ruto's bastion. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei led UDA mandarins in urging ODM to evict their Secretary General. He accused his Senate colleague of being a mole of the united opposition. "The biggest threat to ODM’s growth is Sifuna. He must be removed from ODM as the Secretary General by the end of 2025. He is the mole of the united opposition in ODM," Cherargei stated. Edwin Sifuna, Babu Owino and Simba Arati are among ...

  President William Ruto is so witty in his endeavors. He is not taking anything to chance in his re-election bid. Ruto has been on an offensive charm to woo his esrtwhile political nemeses. In a well choreographed manoeuvre, the president of Kenya under the guise of uniting the nation has retracted his initial stance of battling against dynastical rule and has distanced himself from the over-hyped Kenya hustlers. The sequence of dynastical capture Just like his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta, president Ruto started with luring his 2022 presidential competitor and a perennial presidential contender - Raila Odinga. President William Ruto reached out to Raila after the 2024 Gen-Zs protests that almost turned into a revolution against the State. The handshake between Ruto and Raila led to the inclusion of ODM diehards in the hastily formed broad-based government. Hassan  Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, Opiyo Wandayi and John Mbadi were appointed to the Kenya cabinet courtesy of a rapport be...

 President Willam Samoei Ruto, the  Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, has made several promotions in the Defence Forces. The president, upon recommendation of the Defence Council, promoted Major General David Kipkemboi Ketter to Lieutenant General and appointed him as the Commander of the Kenya Army.  Keter replaced Lieutenant General David Kimaiyo Chemwaina Tarus who has been redeployed as the Vice Chancellor of the National Defence University of Kenya (NDU -K).  Prior to Ketter's appointment as the Kenya Army Commander, he was the Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics. Additionally, President Ruto appointed Major General Benard Waliaula as the Commander of Kenya Air Force.  Major General Benard Waliaula has filled the gap left by Major General Fatuma Gaiti Ahmed whose term of service has expired after 42 years of service.  Prior to Waliaula's appointment as Commander Kenya Air Force, he was the Director of De...

  President William Ruto led Kenyans in the celebration of the 62nd Madaraka Day at Raila Odinga stadium in Homa Bay County on Sunday. Homa Bay County governor Gladys Wanga used the occasion to heap praises on Ruto's broad-based government and the numerous economic development that her region had benefited as a result of their cooperation. Wanga applauded the president for initiating a dual-carriage road network in Homa Bay town and the establishment of national government funded modern fish market in the region. The Madaraka Day event that was feted in Raila Odinga’s stronghold was themed: Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs. What Raila Odinga said The protocol was altered when Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki invited former Prime Minister and the doyen of opposition politics, Raila Odinga to speak. Raila asserted that the holding of the event in Homa Bay county was a clear testimony that 'coalition works’. The former premier rose to the occasion and urged President Ruto to...

President William Ruto has finally urged the Gen Zs to forgive him.  Ruto was forced to seek forgiveness after being requested by Rickey Bolden, an American preacher who had been invited at the 2025 annual National Prayer Breakfast. “To our children, if there’s any misstep, we apologise,” President Ruto apologised to Gen Zs after a request from Pastor Bolden. Former NFL player-turned-pastor Rickey Bolden gave his keynote address on Wednesday during the National Prayer Breakfast at Safari Park hotel in Nairobi. Rickey Bolden prayed that Kenya leaders would apologise to the Gen Z for the massive arrests and closing down the internet. In June 2024, the government of Kenya had deployed the police to stem down the Gen Z protests that was held in various towns, including the Capital City of Nairobi. The young generation, christened as Gen Zs, were protesting against punitive tax measures that had been introduced in the 2024/2025 Finance Bill. Bolden urged the government of Kenya to re...

  The reason why the Public Seal was allegedly transferred from the Attorney General office to the Chief of Staff in the office of the President of Kenya is yet to be known with quite a number of contradictory remarks. Phode News Hub delved deeper and unearthed imponderable dirty corrupt schemes and conspiracy to privatize State parastatals through illegitimate means.  Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru alleged that the Public Seal is in the custody of the Head of Public Service, Felix Kipatarus Koskei. All commercial engagements and accords will allegedly be sealed by Koskei on behalf of Kenya government. Kenya is glaring at the risks of  being auctioned by a person who lacks the legal knowledge to discern what should be sealed and what should not. According to the Attorney General Act 2012, Section 28 specifically provides that, “The Attorney-General shall have custody of the public seal of the Republic of Kenya." Standard Media exclusively reported that President William Ruto sec...

  Former Interior cabinet secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i is a great rival to President William Ruto in his 2027 re-election contest. Matiang'i is set to give Ruto a run for his money, owing to his track record as a cabinet secretary in the previous regime.  Former President Uhuru Kenyatta trusted Matiang'i more than any other cabinet secretary due to his workaholic nature and might be forced to finance his presidential quest.  The former Interior CS is reportedly eyeing the presidential seat on a Jubilee ticket, as alluded by the party's secretary general Jeremiah Kioni. Ruto's dalliance with the doyen of opposition politics and ODM party leader Raila Odinga had complicated the opposition's quest to unseat the sitting Head of State. Matiang'i comeback seals the vaccum left by Raila's departure. Why Ruto might lose Kenya's presidential seat in 2027 Ahead of 2022 general elections in Kenya , President William Ruto promised Kenyans heaven on Earth onl...

 When Kenya president William Ruto was almost overwhelmed with gen z revolt, his landmark decision was to dismiss the entire cabinet. This occurred immediately after his refusal to sign the Finance Bill 2024/2025. Ruto endeavored to reconstitute a new cabinet, dubbed broad-based executive. He incorporated key opposition figures drawn from the ODM Party - a move that appeased the doyen of opposition Raila Amollo Odinga. Cabinet Secretaries drawn from ODM included: Hassan Ali Joho, Wycliffe Ambetsa Oparanya, John Mbadi Ng'onga and James Opiyo Wandayi. ODM is as good as dead, and Raila's age factor limits him from flying the Party's presidential flag again and has opted out by contesting as Africa Union Commission (AUC) chairman. President Ruto will heavily rely on two members of his cabinet in his reelection bid. Both Musalia Mudavadi and Hassan Ali Joho are billionaires going by their own assertion while appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments. President...

 Like the proverbial cat, Raila Amollo Odinga has nine political lives. Despite losing 5 presidential elections, he has always manoeuvred his way to government. It beats common logic how the ODM leader managed to sneak 4 allies to holding key cabinet positions in Ruto's government. The nomination of Ali Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi as Cabinet Secretaries got Kenyans unaware and left mixed reactions among citizens. The mystery that merged the two political giants occurred amidst widespread protests drawn from Generation Z popularly dubbed as Gen Z. Gen Z, comprising a group of youths born in the late 90s and early 2000s, who were dissatisfied with punitive tax measures imposed on Kenyans by Kenya Kwanza government storm the streets demanding change. The protests that culminated into a section of Gen Z youths storming the precincts of parliament led to the withdrawal of the 2024 Finance Bill and dissolution of the Cabinet by President William Ruto. Owi...

 President William Samoei Ruto swapped Defence Cabinet Secretary nominee Aden Duale with Soipan Tuya from the ministry of Environment. The president's decision was publicized in his communication to the National Assembly speaker Moses Wetang'ula. When the Speaker read the president's message to the House, there was uproar in the National Assembly as members demanded to know why there were contradictions in the message with the one that was read by the president about the 11 cabinet nominees. Minority Chief Whip Junet Mohammed was the first one to query the list that was read by Wetangula as he sought clarification. Duale was removed from the powerful docket owing to allegations of haswap influenced the recruitment to the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), of many Kenyans from his Somali tribe, which made him brush shoulders with top military Generals. In recent times before the Gen Zs national protest, Duale, a key Ruto ally, is also believed to have denied Deputy President Rigath...

  Raila Odinga's quest to liberate Kenyans from authoritarianism remain unstoppable. History of the Saba Saba event in Kenya The original Saba Saba rally was organized by Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia and Raila Odinga. However, the three didn't make it to the Kamukunji venue. The first Saba Saba rally in Kenya took place on 07/07/1990. The aim of the event was to bludgeon the then president Daniel Arap Moi to repeal section 2(A) of the Constitution in paving way for multiparty democracy. Political players Kenneth Matiba, Charles Rubia, Raila Odinga, lawyers John Khaminwa and Gitobu Imanyara were arrested by the police. Kiraitu Murungi who was on a trip to Ethiopia, chose to cut-off his journey back to Kenya and fled to the United Kingdom. Lawyer Mohammed Ibrahim, currently a judge of the Supreme Court, was arrested by the Special Branch officers after they failed to find the then Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Paul Muite at his office. Senior Counsel Gibson K...