President William Ruto has defended his leadership style, dismissing claims that he micromanages government officials. Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Monday during the launch of retired Major Marsden Madoka’s autobiography, Ruto said his hands-on approach is essential for delivering results and eliminating mediocrity in public service.
The President noted that his critics often misunderstand his insistence on performance, mistaking it for control. He explained that his administration’s focus is on achieving tangible results for Kenyans, and that requires active involvement and accountability from all government officials.
“Many times I am accused of micromanaging staff, but you see, when you have reluctant people whose only mentality is that they have seen many governments come and go, that is not right. That is why I have taken the ambition of our country personally,” Ruto said.
According to the Head of State, Kenya cannot afford a complacent approach to leadership. He argued that only a committed and focused government can deliver on promises made to citizens, emphasizing that mediocrity has no place in his administration.
Ruto’s remarks come amid growing criticism from some quarters that he stifles the independence of Cabinet Secretaries and Principal Secretaries by being overly involved in decision-making. However, the President insisted that his goal is to ensure every official understands their role in achieving national goals.
The President’s defense reflects his broader philosophy of performance-based governance, where results, not rhetoric, define success. His leadership style, though divisive, underscores a determination to maintain high standards within the public sector.
As Ruto continues to push for efficiency and accountability, his critics argue that true leadership should empower, not control. Still, for the President, the message remains clear excellence requires involvement, and progress demands responsibility at every level of government.
