Ruto confident of victory in 2027 despite opposition criticism

President William Ruto has expressed confidence that his second term in office will be hard to contest, noting that his performance in his first term would be the determining factor in the 2027 General Elections.

Speaking at the funeral of former Cabinet Minister John Koech in Bomet County, Ruto stated that his rivals lacked a concrete alternative development plan for the country.

"I know I have a mandate from the people of Kenya, and the verdict on my performance will come in 2027. I do not intend to fail that test. I must deliver and earn a second term in office. I am well-prepared for the duel ahead," he declared on Tuesday.

During his address, the President highlighted various programs his government had rolled out, which he believes have addressed key areas in the economy.

In particular, Ruto focused on the substantial strides made in stabilizing the country’s economy, noting the drop in inflation from 9 percent to 3 percent since he assumed office in September 2022.

His administration’s reforms in agriculture, particularly in the tea, coffee, and dairy sectors, have reportedly boosted farmer incomes. Additionally, Ruto pointed out the ongoing fertiliser subsidy program that has helped improve agricultural output.

Ruto, however, acknowledged the growing criticisms over his administration's performance but remained unwavering in his commitment to fulfilling his electoral promises.

"Last week, we paid Sh60 billion to contractors who are now back on sites to continue upgrading roads to bitumen standards," he highlighted, emphasizing that infrastructure development was on track.

Healthcare was another sector Ruto highlighted with pride, particularly the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) scheme, which has seen 21 million Kenyans enrolled.

The program has been especially well-received in counties such as Mombasa, Bomet, Nyeri, and Elgeyo Marakwet.

"People no longer have to sell their land or property to access treatment. That is the direction we're heading," he said, explaining how the universal health coverage scheme was helping to ease the financial burden on Kenyans seeking medical care.

Defending the President, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot urged critics to tone down their attacks, stressing that the presidency was bigger than any individual.

He also took aim at the media for biased reporting.

"There will be another President after Dr Ruto. The presidency is not about an individual. You cannot reduce the office to personal attacks," Cheruiyot asserted.

Echoing sentiments of unity and humility, former Governor Isaac Ruto praised the late John Koech for his graciousness in accepting defeat during the 1997 elections.

Isaac Ruto emphasized the importance of moving beyond electoral competition to support the leaders chosen by the people. "Once elections are over, let’s accept the outcome and support those given the mandate to lead," he said.

Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen and Davis Chirchir reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering on its development agenda, with Murkomen particularly stressing the importance of maintaining peace at public events.

"Those sponsoring goons to disrupt funerals and rallies will be dealt with firmly. Those who organize such events must inform security agencies so that peace can be maintained," Murkomen said.