Ruto’s Hustler Dream: Broken Promises, Rising Discontent
As Ruto’s administration grapples with economic hardships, political instability, and public discontent, his vision of a “hustler” government remains in question
President William Ruto/Photo Courtesy
By Jesse Abisheck
Email: abijessyshi@gmail.com
When President William Ruto assumed office, his rise was heralded as a monumental victory for the “hustler nation.” Campaigning on a narrative that pitted ordinary Kenyans against a powerful political elite, Ruto promised transformative change as a self-proclaimed representative of the common citizen. Yet, over two years into his presidency, these promises remain largely unfulfilled, as mounting economic and political challenges have defined his tenure.
A Tumultuous Road to Power
Ruto’s ascent to the presidency was anything but smooth. His strained relationship with former President Uhuru Kenyatta during his tenure as Deputy President was no secret. Alleging marginalization in favor of then-Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, Ruto often found himself on the defensive. Adding to his woes, a 2018 Ipsos poll labeled him as the most corrupt public official in Kenya, a perception he vehemently denied.
Despite these hurdles, Ruto emerged victorious in the highly contested 2022 presidential election, narrowly defeating Raila Odinga. The Supreme Court’s dismissal of Raila’s petition challenging the results solidified Ruto’s win, giving him the opportunity to fulfill his ambitious promises.
Early Moves: Symbolism Over Substance?
Upon taking office, Ruto made symbolic gestures that garnered public approval, such as appointing six judges previously rejected by his predecessor. He also formed his Cabinet, later appointing 50 Chief Administrative Secretaries (CAS). However, the courts declared these CAS positions unconstitutional, leaving notable appointees, including Millicent Omanga, in limbo.
Economic Missteps and Public Backlash
The economic landscape under Ruto has been fraught with challenges. In 2023, his administration proposed a Finance Bill introducing taxes on essential goods like bread and sanitary pads. The bill sparked public outrage and nationwide protests, particularly among Gen Z activists, who stormed Parliament and called for Ruto’s resignation.
Photo Courtesy
Public discontent escalated as inflation, unemployment, and stalled development projects persisted. Ruto’s government tried to mitigate the backlash by cutting spending on non-essential items, but dissatisfaction remained widespread. Online campaigns like #RutoMustGo further underscored the growing anger among Kenyans.
Political Instability: The Gachagua Impeachment Saga
In a dramatic turn of events, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was impeached in 2024 following accusations of tribal favoritism. Both the National Assembly and Senate voted to remove him, paving the way for Kithure Kindiki to be sworn in as Deputy President on November 4, 2024.
Gachagua, reflecting on his ouster during a church service, remarked, “If I was the problem, now that I am out, life should become easier.” Despite the shake-up, the political and economic challenges facing the government showed no signs of abating.
Controversial Decisions and Authoritarian Allegations
Ruto’s administration faced fierce criticism over a proposed 30-year deal to grant India’s Adani Group control of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Public uproar forced Ruto to cancel the deal during his November 2024 State of the Nation address. However, his labeling of critics as “devil spirits” only heightened tensions.
Reports of arrests, abductions, and extrajudicial killings of government critics have further fueled accusations of authoritarianism. Activists like Eric Omondi and Okiya Omtatah have faced arrests, while civil society groups have condemned these actions as a suppression of dissent.
Opposition Figures Join Government
In an unexpected move, Ruto expanded his Cabinet to include opposition leaders, such as Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), and John Mbadi (Treasury). Former ODM stalwarts like Hassan Joho, now serving as Mining CS, have become staunch government defenders.
Critics have accused these leaders of betrayal, pointing out that their inclusion has brought no tangible improvements. Civil society and church leaders have also expressed concern over continued corruption and unfulfilled promises, with churches refusing donations from government officials, citing “dirty money” concerns.
The Hustler-in-Chief’s Legacy
As Ruto’s administration grapples with economic hardships, political instability, and public discontent, his vision of a “hustler” government remains in question. While he has taken steps to present an inclusive administration, many Kenyans remain skeptical about his commitment to genuine change.
The critical question lingers: can President Ruto deliver on his promises and restore public trust, or will his presidency be remembered as a period of unfulfilled hopes and mounting challenges?
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