Activist Calls for Ruto's Re-election, Says Visionary Leadership Is Key to Kenya's Future

In a lengthy statement issued on Tuesday, Ngetich, who leads the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy, said Kenya's future depends on leaders who embrace national cohesion, inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens, rather than politics driven by ethnic divisions.

He argued that President Ruto has, since taking office, demonstrated courage, determination and visionary leadership by pursuing reforms aimed at transforming the country's economy while ensuring development reaches every part of Kenya.

"The future of this country lies in the hands of courageous, visionary and transformative leadership based on national cohesion and inclusivity. President William Ruto has proved beyond reasonable doubt that he is a transformative leader who has demonstrated courage and determination to challenge the status quo and turn uncertainty into opportunities for growth," Ngetich said.

According to the activist, the President has shown bravery in making difficult policy decisions and implementing programmes intended to improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans despite facing political resistance from his critics.

Inclusive development agenda

Ngetich praised what he described as the government's inclusive approach to development, saying projects are being implemented across different regions without discrimination.

He pointed to investments in road infrastructure, affordable housing, women and farmers' markets, youth empowerment programmes, and other economic initiatives as evidence of the administration's commitment to improving livelihoods.

He also highlighted the government's NYOTA youth empowerment programme, saying it has created opportunities for young people to access financial support and entrepreneurship training.

"The development that we are witnessing across the country is a deliberate mission of inclusivity. The President has chosen to unite Kenyans and ensure development reaches every region regardless of political affiliation," he said.

Ngetich noted that equal distribution of development projects promotes national cohesion and reduces feelings of exclusion that have historically contributed to political tensions.

Criticism of opposition politics

The human rights activist accused sections of the opposition of opposing President Ruto because they were uncomfortable with what he described as the decline of tribal-based politics.

Without providing evidence, he claimed some opposition leaders continue to rely on ethnic mobilization instead of presenting alternative development agendas.

He specifically criticized Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua and other opposition figures, alleging that they were attempting to revive tribal politics at the expense of national unity.

According to Ngetich, Kenya should reject leadership that promotes favoritism, nepotism and marginalization.

"Peace, unity and inclusivity create the essential foundation for sustainable growth. This is the political culture the President has chosen for Kenya, where every citizen has an equal opportunity to benefit from development," he said.

Calls for continuity in leadership

Ngetich argued that allowing President Ruto to serve a second term would enable the government to complete ongoing flagship projects and fully implement policies designed to transform the country's economy.

He said continuity in leadership would strengthen investor confidence and provide stability necessary for long-term development.

"The President has created policies and laws which, if fully implemented, will place Kenya on the path towards economic self-sufficiency. It is therefore important that these programmes are given enough time to bear fruit," he stated.

The activist further said President Ruto possesses qualities that are needed in modern African leadership, including strategic thinking, youth inclusion, ethical governance and commitment to regional integration.

He added that Kenya has positioned itself as a model for progressive leadership through investments in infrastructure, youth empowerment programmes, agricultural reforms and women's economic empowerment initiatives.

Youth urged to register as voters

Ngetich appealed to young Kenyans to register as voters in large numbers ahead of the next General Election and actively participate in shaping the country's future.

He urged the youth not to be influenced by propaganda, misinformation or ethnic-based political campaigns.

Instead, he encouraged them to embrace government empowerment initiatives, saying such programmes offer practical opportunities for economic independence and personal growth.

"Our young people should not allow themselves to be used by political actors whose interests do not reflect their aspirations. They should take advantage of empowerment programmes that are meant to improve their lives and create a better future," he said.

He maintained that Kenya's youth stand to benefit from continued implementation of government programmes targeting employment creation, entrepreneurship, affordable housing and agricultural value chains.

Appeal to Kenyans

Ngetich concluded by calling on Kenyans to safeguard national unity and support leaders who promote peace, inclusivity and equitable development.

He cautioned against what he described as divisive politics and urged citizens to focus on leadership that advances public welfare instead of personal or ethnic interests.

According to the activist, Kenya has made significant progress under the current administration and should avoid reversing those gains through political polarization.

He expressed confidence that President Ruto deserves another term in office, arguing that continuity would enable the country to consolidate ongoing reforms and achieve long-term economic transformation.

His remarks come as political activity continues to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with both the Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition leaders stepping up public engagements as they seek to win support across the country.