President William Ruto has said Kenya needs an intelligent and capable leader to steer the country, in a pointed message to his political rivals ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Thursday, October 8, during the National Industrial Training Authority graduation ceremony at State House in Nairobi, Ruto described Kenya as a modern and complex country that requires serious leadership.
“We are a very serious country, and I see many people running around. Kenya is a modern, very complex and sophisticated country. No fool can run this country,” Ruto said.
“It requires someone with intelligence. That’s how you take the country forward,” he added.
The President did not name any of his political opponents. But his remarks come as several leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 presidential contest.
Ruto challenges rivals to offer plans
Ruto has repeatedly criticised opposition figures, accusing them of attacking his administration without presenting clear alternatives.
He has urged political leaders seeking the presidency to explain their policies, plans and vision for the country.
At a rally in Kajiado on September 3, he challenged his opponents to focus on what they would do for Kenyans rather than relying on political criticism.
His latest remarks followed the same theme, with Ruto presenting leadership as a question of competence and understanding of the country’s challenges.
President defends international engagements
Ruto also defended his frequent participation in international meetings, including engagements with the African Union and the United Nations.
He said such appearances were part of his effort to raise Kenya’s standing internationally.
“That is how you profile a nation. That is how you raise the profile of a country,” Ruto said.
He added that Kenya now enjoys greater international recognition and respect, arguing that his foreign engagements have helped strengthen the country’s profile.
The comments come as Ruto faces continued domestic debate over the cost of living, jobs, taxation and the performance of his administration.
Ruto tells graduates not to undervalue their skills
The President also used the graduation ceremony to encourage the newly trained workers to have confidence in their skills.
Speaking partly in Swahili, he warned graduates against accepting extremely low pay for skilled work.
“Msipige your skill na bei ya chini,” Ruto said, urging them not to undervalue their expertise when negotiating for employment.
He gave plumbing work as an example, joking that graduates should not accept being paid only a small amount for a job that requires professional skills.
The message drew laughter from the graduates, but Ruto used the moment to stress a broader point: workers should understand the value of their training and seek opportunities that reflect their skills.
Ruto’s comments add another sharp note to the political debate ahead of the next election, as potential contenders begin positioning themselves and the administration continues to defend its record in government.
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