President William Ruto has once again reminded Kenyans of his humble beginnings, emphasizing that his journey to the presidency was not driven by privilege, but by the grace of God. Speaking at State House during a meeting with Nairobi United Football Club, the 2025 Mozzart Bet Cup champions, Ruto shared personal reflections on his rise from modest roots to occupying the highest office in the land.
“I am just an ordinary person. I got here by the grace of God,” Ruto said, adding that some people still find it hard to believe that he is the President. His statement underlined the persistent skepticism he faces from critics, even two years into his term.
Ruto, known for his “hustler” narrative, took the opportunity to defend his decision to open the State House doors to everyday citizens, including sports teams and youth groups. He responded to criticism that this move has lowered the prestige of the presidency by asserting, “They are now telling me that I have lowered the standards of the State House by bringing in ‘ordinary’ people.”
He reminded Kenyans that he is not ashamed of his past, having grown up in rural poverty and started his entrepreneurial journey selling chicken. “I am a chicken farmer, and it is a very good business. Iko na pesa, by the way,” he said with a smile, encouraging young people to embrace humble beginnings.
Flanked by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and other leaders, the President reiterated his belief that the youth are Kenya’s greatest resource. He stressed the importance of investing in education, talent development, and training to unlock the country’s full economic potential.
“This is the reason we are intentionally putting more resources in the education and training of our youth to build and productively exploit their talents to drive our economic growth,” Ruto noted.
As he concluded, Ruto sent a clear message to his detractors: “Lakini Mungu ni nani? Mimi ndiyo niko hapa kwa sasa, wajipange.” (But who is God? I am the one in office now; they should prepare themselves.)
