Aasai

President William Ruto has vowed to deliver on every promise he made to Kenyans during his 2022 election campaign, saying he will not abandon any of his pledges despite mounting criticism. Speaking on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at a high-profile religious event in Machakos County, Ruto addressed growing doubts about his administrations performance, declaring that his government’s development agenda is on track and that those questioning it will be shamed by the results.

The President was the chief guest at the consecration and installation of Bishop Benjamin Kalanzo as the new head of the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Machakos Area, an event held at AIC Bomani Masaku Service Grounds. The ceremony, attended by religious leaders, politicians, and thousands of faithful, also saw the installation of Amos Ndunda as Assistant Bishop. The event was presided over by AIC Presiding Bishop Abraham Mulwa.

While addressing the congregation, Ruto delivered a strongly worded speech defending his campaign promises and policy direction. He dismissed claims that he had over-promised in 2022, instead arguing that his vision reflects a national ambition to raise standards and pursue excellence. “I want to state that it is not over-promising; we are raising our ambition as a nation,” Ruto said. “For too long, the dreams of Kenyans have been average. That must change — we must now aim higher and do better.”

Ruto shared a conversation he had with a bishop who suggested that some of his campaign pledges might have been made for political mileage and should be quietly abandoned. The President said he firmly rejected this idea, stating that every word he spoke on the campaign trail was intentional and will be fulfilled. “He told me I might have said some things just to be elected. He asked me to find a way of walking away from some of the promises. But I told him I have no such intention. I intend to keep every promise I made,” Ruto declared.

Turning his attention to critics, Ruto said those accusing him of failing to meet his commitments would soon be proven wrong. “Those saying I am not fulfilling my pledges — I will shame them,” he stated. He acknowledged that change is never immediate but stressed that the government has already laid the groundwork for progress, especially in economic recovery, job creation, and public service reforms.

On the economy, Ruto maintained that his administration’s strategies are producing visible results. “I want to tell Kenyans — what I said about the economy, I meant it, and it is happening. Our economy is growing, and the numbers show it,” he said. According to the President, key indicators point to a strengthening economy, with increasing investor confidence, stabilizing inflation, and improved revenue collection, even though many "Doubting Thomases" continue to express doubt.

The President further called for patience and unity, urging Kenyans to believe in the transformation agenda. He emphasized the role of faith and moral leadership in building a better nation, praising the church for being a pillar of hope and guidance. “We must believe in ourselves. We must believe in this country. If we stay the course, there is no doubt we will achieve greatness,” Ruto said.

The event brought together various leaders including Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, and Members of Parliament Mwengi Mutuse (Kibwezi West) and Vincent Musyoka (Mwala). Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion, not only for the church but also for the political and social landscape of the region.

In closing, President Ruto thanked the clergy and faithful for their prayers and support, reiterating his vision for a transformed Kenya guided by integrity, hard work, and shared responsibility. “We must not retreat from our dreams. As your President, I will not rest until every promise I made is fulfilled,” he concluded.