NAIROBI — President William Ruto has issued a rare and direct apology to neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania, saying if Kenya has done wrong, it seeks forgiveness.
Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast held at Safari Park in Nairobi on Wednesday, Ruto struck a humble tone. In front of politicians, religious leaders, and dignitaries, he called for healing and unity across East Africa.
“Our neighbours from Tanzania, if we have wronged you in any way, forgive us,” Ruto said. “Our friends from Uganda, if there is anything that Kenyans have done that is not right, we want to apologise.”
His remarks come at a time when Kenya’s diplomatic ties with its neighbours have been under pressure. Earlier this year, several Kenyan activists were deported from Tanzania after attending a court hearing for opposition figure Tundu Lissu. The move sparked anger on social media, with citizens from both countries engaging in heated exchanges online. Lawmakers added fuel to the fire, with MPs from both sides trading barbs.
Ruto’s message appeared to be a clear attempt to cool tensions.
But he didn’t stop at foreign relations. The President also addressed Kenya’s own internal unrest, particularly the strained relationship between his government and the country’s youth. Many young Kenyans have accused the administration of failing to deliver on promises, especially during last year’s anti-tax protests that turned deadly.
“To our children, if there is any misstep, we apologise,” Ruto said. “We want to build a relationship that will make our country great.”
The 2024 protests were sparked by what many saw as crippling taxes and poor governance. Several young demonstrators were killed by police, leading to widespread condemnation of the government’s handling of dissent.
Kenya Kwanza, the ruling coalition, has also faced public criticism over alleged corruption and economic mismanagement, even as millions of Kenyans continue to grapple with a high cost of living.
Despite this, Ruto expressed optimism about the country’s future.
“I am confident about the future of Kenya,” he said. “No matter what happens, it’s going to be greater than our past.”
He urged Kenyans to shift away from blame and focus on reconciliation.
“Let’s do less of finding fault and more of building bridges,” he said.
Observers see the President’s speech as a move to soften political tension, both within Kenya and with its neighbours. Whether the message will be enough to reset diplomatic ties or rebuild trust among disillusioned Kenyans remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear — Ruto is choosing humility, at least in words, as he navigates a complex political landscape at home and abroad.
