Ruto Urges Youth to Support Him, Promises to Hand Over Power by 2032

President William Ruto, on a three-day visit to Gusii, has urged the youth to support him in the upcoming 2027 general elections. He accused opposition leaders of blocking young politicians from rising to power. Ruto promised that he would step down in 2032 to make way for a new generation of leaders. He made the remarks while addressing a gathering in the Gusii region.

Ruto criticized opposition leaders, saying they have been in power for years without bringing about change. He promised to work with young leaders, citing examples of young MPs like Osoro of South Mugirango and Zaheer Jhanda of Nyaribari Chache. The President claimed some leaders have been blocking young politicians, including John Methu, Ndindi Nyoro, Kimani Ichung'wah, and Aaron Cheruiyot.

The President encouraged the Gusii youth to register for the National Youth Service and Entrepreneurship Programme (NYOTA). He said the program would provide opportunities for youth to access jobs and develop their businesses. Ruto stated that his government has created over 1.1 million jobs through affordable housing projects, and 680,000 Kenyans have found employment abroad.

Ruto's government has also created 350,000 digital jobs, he said. Additionally, 130,000 youth have received Sh50,000 each under NYOTA to start or expand their businesses. A second phase of the program will target 200,000 youth. The President is working to repair his relationship with the youth, which deteriorated after 2024 and 2025 protests over the Finance Bill.

The protests, sparked by concerns over the cost of living, unemployment, and police brutality, led to the withdrawal of the Finance Bill. However, they were followed by the arrest of protesters and criticism of police handling of the demonstrations. On the third day of his visit, Ruto launched and inspected various projects in Kisii County.

The projects included road construction, electricity supply, school and hospital developments, and a modern market. Ruto also visited Marani, where he inspected a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) project. The President's visit aimed to strengthen his connection with the Gusii region and appeal for support from the local youth.

Ruto's efforts to win over the youth come as his administration faces criticism over various issues, including the economy and governance. The President's campaign for the 2027 elections is expected to focus on his achievements and plans for the country's development. His relationship with the youth will be crucial in determining his success in the upcoming polls.

Key points

• Ruto promises to hand over power to a new generation of leaders by 2032.
• The President encourages youth to register for the NYOTA program to access jobs and develop their businesses.
• Ruto's visit to Gusii aims to strengthen his connection with the region and appeal for support from the local youth.