Deliver on Pledges, Ruto Tells Cabinet at Karen Retreat

President William Ruto has issued a firm ultimatum to his Cabinet and senior government officials: deliver on campaign promises to the Kenyan populace or risk jeopardising the nation's future. 

Speaking at the Third National Executive Retreat in Karen, Nairobi, President Ruto underscored the need for immediate and visible progress, particularly given the ongoing pressures of a high cost of living and public concern over police conduct and persistent service delivery issues. At the mid-point of his first term, Ruto framed this juncture not as a moment for complacency but as a critical window for demonstrable impact. 

"Transformation cannot be postponed. If change is achievable in five years, then we must not wait a decade," he stated, reflecting a broader demand for public servants to prioritise responsibility and lasting legacy over short-term gains.

The President's directive has received backing from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei. Mudavadi emphasised that the retreat serves as a moment for internal accountability and long-term visioning, especially as the administration prepares for post-2027 legacy considerations. 

The recent political realignment with the Orange Democratic Movement has also been characterised as a strategic move to enhance policy stability and effective delivery. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki provided broader context, noting the economic vulnerabilities inherited by the administration, exacerbated by global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and inflationary pressures emanating from international markets. 

Kindiki highlighted progress in stabilising inflation and fuel supplies, while acknowledging that public scepticism is a natural consequence of the ambitious campaign promises that propelled the administration to power. Koskei framed the retreat as both an audit and a catalyst, an opportunity to assess whether current reforms are indeed strengthening governance and enhancing equity. 

"Our task now is to shift from planning to action, from rhetoric to measurable impact," Koskei said.