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Ruto: I intend to fulfil all promises made during my term
20th July, 2025 01:47 PM
President William Ruto has reiterated his commitment to delivering on his campaign promises, pushing back against criticism that his Bottom-Up Economic Agenda has fallen short of expectations.
Speaking on July 20, 2025, during the installation ceremony at the African Inland Church (AIC) Bomani in Machakos Town, he maintained that he remains determined to meet every pledge he made to Kenyans.
“I want to assure you that every promise I made, I intend to fulfil during my term,” Ruto said. Addressing accusations of overpromising, he added, “I have had critics on overpromising; it is not overpromising; we are raising our ambition as a nation.”
Ruto congratulated Bishop Benjamin Kalanzo on his new role as assistant bishop. Kalanzo will serve under Bishop Rev. Phillip Muia, who has been at the helm of the AIC Machakos Diocese since 2021. The event drew congregants from across the region, marking a significant moment for the church leadership and the wider Machakos faith community.
The president dismissed claims that his goals are unrealistic, insisting that Kenya has for too long accepted mediocrity. “For a long time, we as Kenya have been rated average, but it is time to rise beyond average and excel—that is my mission,” he said.
Ruto further stated that he has no intention of abandoning any of his pledges, arguing that his administration’s vision is rooted in belief in Kenya’s potential. “I must fulfil all that I promised because I believe in Kenya and in the ability of this nation to be better than what it is today,” he said.
Critics’ promises and delivery
Ruto’s assurances come at a time of growing public discontent, with critics questioning whether his administration can deliver on its ambitious agenda. Former Roots Party presidential running mate Justina Wamae, in a July 9 interview, accused the president of losing the trust of many Kenyans by making promises without offering clear strategies for implementation.
“He was telling people about a bottom-up economy, but he did not explain how they would pull their weight up,” Wamae said. She criticised the government for prioritising political theatrics over practical solutions, such as job creation and economic empowerment, while ordinary citizens continue to grapple with unemployment and rising living costs.
Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, speaking during Ruto’s 1,000 days in office on June 11, accused the president of sidelining his allies and consolidating power. He cited the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as evidence of betrayal, saying, “Ruto is thankless because he kicked out all his supporters once he got power.”
Lugari MP Nabii Nabwera offered a more measured assessment, giving Ruto a C grade for his performance so far. He pointed to the constraints of the 2010 Constitution as a factor limiting the president’s ability to fully deliver, contrasting his term with that of former President Mwai Kibaki.
As Ruto doubles down on his pledges, the spotlight remains on his administration’s ability to match words with action.
