President William Ruto has dismissed suggestions that his current agenda is driven by political expediency, saying his focus is on delivering lasting change for the country rather than seeking popularity or early support for future elections.
Speaking during a church service at the AIPCA Gatundu North Diocese, Karure, Kiambu County, the President said he had moved beyond the stage of campaigning for votes and was instead committed to implementing his development agenda and reforms, which he described as his core mission.
“All this work that I am doing is not about looking for votes. I am past the stage of seeking votes. I want to change Kenya. That is my mission,” President Ruto said.
The Head of State argued that Kenyans had already entrusted him with a mandate during the 2022 General Election and that his responsibility now was to deliver on the promises made at the time.
“If it were about votes, didn’t you elect me in 2022 to do this work?” he said.
Ruto urged Kenyans to focus on performance and outcomes rather than political rhetoric, noting that accountability should be anchored on tangible results.
He said political leaders should ultimately be evaluated on the basis of their work rather than their ability to generate noise or trade insults.
“People should not trouble themselves with issues of votes; that will come later, and God will decide, and the citizens will have their say, and everyone will be judged by their work,” he said.
The President also appeared to take aim at his critics, saying those who rely on insults and constant political attacks instead of constructive engagement should not be rewarded by the electorate.
“Those who make noise and hurl insults should be sent home quickly. I want to be judged by my work,” he added.
Ruto’s remarks come amid sustained criticism of his administration over the state of the economy, cost of living pressures and ongoing policy reforms.
Opposition leaders and sections of civil society have accused the government of prioritising political survival over addressing the immediate challenges facing ordinary Kenyans.
However, the President has repeatedly defended his record, insisting that his policies are designed to deliver long-term economic stability, expand opportunities and transform livelihoods, even if they attract resistance in the short term.
He has maintained that structural reforms, particularly in agriculture, housing and infrastructure, require time to yield results.
