Eldoret Human Rights Activist Hails President Ruto’s Visionary Address to UDA Aspirants, Calls for Unity and Servant Leadership

An Eldoret-based human rights and democracy activist has praised President William Ruto for what he described as a bold, timely, and visionary address delivered to United Democratic Alliance (UDA) political aspirants, saying the message reflects the kind of progressive leadership Kenya requires at a critical moment in its history.

Kipkorir Ngetich, a prominent advocate with the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, said President Ruto’s remarks demonstrated intellectual depth, political maturity, and a clear commitment to empowering ordinary citizens amid global and domestic economic challenges.

“As the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, we wish to salute His Excellency President Dr William Ruto for the elaborate and visionary statement he made today before UDA political aspirants,” Ngetich said in a statement issued in Eldoret. “The President stands out as one of the most brilliant minds of this century—one that Kenya, Africa, and the world need at a time when societies are struggling to stabilise social and economic rights.”

Leadership at a Critical Economic Moment

Ngetich noted that President Ruto’s message comes at a time when Kenya’s economy continues to face pressure from both internal and external shocks, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, historical mismanagement of public resources, rising unemployment, and the high cost of living.

“The Kenyan economy has struggled for a long time, especially as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, governance challenges, and rising cases of unemployment,” he said. “This is therefore the right moment for the President to inject knowledge, wisdom, and clarity into those who aspire to occupy public office.”

He added that leadership today requires more than political rhetoric, arguing that modern governance demands intellectual capacity, emotional intelligence, and a deep understanding of the lived realities of ordinary citizens.

“Brilliant leadership integrates cognitive, emotional, and intuitive intelligence required for progressive governance. That is the kind of leadership we see in President William Ruto,” Ngetich said.

Tax Policy and Social Impact

The human rights activist particularly welcomed the President’s emphasis on lowering taxation and waiving certain levies, describing the policy direction as people-centred and responsive to the economic struggles faced by many Kenyans.

“The President made a very important point on reducing taxation and entirely waiving some taxes. This will have a direct and positive impact on our youth, young families, and the poor,” Ngetich said.

He observed that easing the tax burden would help stimulate economic activity, create breathing space for small businesses, and enhance household resilience.

“This idea has come at the right moment and was appropriately shared with those who intend to shoulder the responsibility of public service. It reflects leadership that listens, understands, and responds to the needs of the people,” he added.

Call to Aspirants: Serve, Don’t Seek Self-Interest

Ngetich used the opportunity to issue a strong call to UDA aspirants, urging them to internalise the President’s message and demonstrate integrity, discipline, and patriotism as they seek elective office.

“This is a clarion call for servant leadership, courage, and national duty,” he said. “This journey does not need self-seekers or political joyriders. It requires people who are determined, committed, and ready to serve the country selflessly.”

He cautioned aspirants against engaging in divisive politics or personal ambition that undermines national unity and development.

“Those aspiring to leadership must understand that public office is about service, sacrifice, and accountability—not personal gain,” Ngetich emphasised.

Resilience of the Presidency

Reflecting on President Ruto’s time in office, Ngetich noted that the Head of State has faced immense political, economic, and social pressure since assuming power in 2022, yet has remained focused on his vision.

“The President has weathered heavy storms since taking office in 2022. Despite the challenges, he has remained energetic, focused, and resilient because of his belief and trust in the vision he has for Kenya,” he said.

He argued that such resilience is a key attribute of effective leadership, especially in a rapidly changing global environment.

“First-world countries are where they are today in terms of better social, economic, and security outcomes because of brilliant and progressive leadership driven by human intellect, collective action, and unity of purpose—not miracles,” Ngetich said.

Unity, Collective Leadership, and Party Responsibility

The activist stressed that meaningful national transformation can only be achieved through collective leadership and unity, calling on UDA leaders and supporters to rally behind the President’s agenda.

“The highest levels of advancement have always been achieved through togetherness and collective leadership. That is exactly what the President demonstrated today by rallying aspirants to support a shared vision,” he said.

He noted that UDA aspirants now carry a special responsibility as ambassadors of the President’s agenda at the grassroots.

“They are now the ambassadors of the President in a highly charged and competitive political environment. They must work hard to ensure the President is supported to complete this transformative agenda for Kenya,” Ngetich said.

Fairness and Internal Democracy Within UDA

Ngetich also challenged the ruling party to uphold fairness, transparency, and internal democracy as it prepares for the next general election.

“The UDA team, as it builds towards the next election, must exercise fairness, embrace competitive democracy, and above all, win the trust of all Kenyans,” he said.

He urged aspirants not to rely on endorsements alone but to engage directly with voters and earn legitimacy through hard work and service.

“They should not wait for endorsements. They should work hard, win the confidence of party supporters, and demonstrate leadership at the grassroots,” he added.

Confidence in the Future

While expressing confidence in President Ruto’s leadership, Ngetich stressed that success would depend on discipline, unity, and sustained engagement with citizens.

“We are confident in the President’s leadership and vision. However, the bottom line for party supporters is hard work, unity of purpose, and rallying Kenyans to support the President’s vision for today and tomorrow,” he said.

He concluded by describing Kenya as fortunate to have a leader who is bold, visionary, and ready to confront challenges head-on.

“It is a privilege for this country to have a President who is strong, determined, visionary, and always ready to provide solutions in difficult times,” Ngetich said.