Aasai

President William Ruto has made it clear that his administration’s primary focus is not the 2027 general election, but rather the transformation of Kenya through the implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Speaking during the Third National Executive Retreat at the KCB Leadership Centre in Kajiado County, Ruto addressed claims that his government overpromised during the 2022 campaign, saying that every commitment made is not only realistic but also achievable.

The two-day retreat served as a platform to assess the progress made in delivering the administrations ambitious economic transformation plan. In his address, Ruto remained resolute about his government’s capacity to fulfill its manifesto promises. “Yes, we promised a lot, but we will deliver,” he stated, acknowledging that the journey has been tough and full of challenges that require bold leadership and difficult decisions. Ruto revealed that some advisers had suggested he delay handling complex national issues until after securing a second term.

However, he dismissed such suggestions, emphasizing that his leadership is not about political convenience but about initiating the fundamental changes the country needs. “I have no intention whatsoever of escaping any of the commitments we made,” he said. “We have been timid for far too long about what needs to be done in Kenya.” He reaffirmed that the transformation of the country remains his administration’s top priority, not the next election. Responding to critics who have accused his government of making unattainable promises, Ruto maintained that everything outlined in the Kenya Kwanza manifesto is grounded in feasibility. “We did not overpromise. We promised what is doable,” he insisted.

The President also touched on the government’s progress in the affordable housing sector, highlighting ongoing projects such as the Kibera Soweto East Zone B development. He assured Kenyans that the allocation of housing units will be fair, transparent, and free from any ethnic or political bias. “You will be given first priority to own these houses before considering others,” he told local residents, assuring them that all deserving Kenyans would benefit equally from the initiative.

Addressing concerns over the levies introduced under the housing plan, Ruto defended the program as a key pillar in creating jobs and solving the country’s urban housing crisis. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring inclusivity and unity, stating that the program is designed to build a cohesive nation. On healthcare, Ruto highlighted the success of the Social Health Authority (SHA), revealing that over 23 million Kenyans have registered with the scheme, with over 93,000 signing up on a single day—Monday, June 9, 2025.

He said this strong uptake signals public trust in the governments universal health coverage plan. The SHA, which was introduced to replace the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF), now operates under the new name "Taifa Care." The president explained that NHIF only served a small portion of the population—mostly salaried individuals—whereas Taifa Care is inclusive and accessible to all. “Under Taifa Care, every Kenyan is eligible for comprehensive health services upon registration,” Ruto said, encouraging citizens to enroll as a vital step toward securing dependable healthcare for themselves and their families. In conclusion, President Ruto emphasized that his administration remains focused on fulfilling its promises to the people and laying down a solid foundation for a transformed, equitable, and prosperous Kenya.