Ruto: I’m the most learned president Kenya has ever elected

Caption:Ruto says his educational qualifications and political experience justify his fast-paced approach to governance. VIDEO/K24TV

President William Ruto has defended his reform policies, insisting that he has no reason to delay difficult decisions given his age, experience, and educational background.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during the cheque presentation ceremony of Ksh2.65 billion to the Kenya Tea Development Agency on Thursday, September 11, 2025, Ruto said his administration is committed to fast-tracking transformative programs despite criticism.

“I have studied, and I have studied well. I am probably the most learned president Kenya has ever elected. So who am I waiting for? I have no excuse,” he said.

Reform defense

Ruto dismissed critics who suggest he should slow down his reforms, arguing that Kenya had already fallen behind other economies and could not afford further delays.

“There are people who tell me education reforms are difficult, affordable housing is difficult, SHA is difficult, maybe you should wait for another term. Do we have time to wait? Korea left us long ago, Singapore left us long ago. We don’t have time,” he told the gathering.

Also watch: Health CS Duale warns against misuse of SHA Funds, announces free maternal services

“Let us do what we can do now. If something remains, we will handle it tomorrow. We must change this country,” he added.

Public service experience

The Head of State also highlighted his own journey in public service, noting that he had accumulated sufficient political experience as a Member of Parliament for 15 years and Deputy President for a decade before assuming office.

“I am not old, but I have enough experience,” he said.

Also watch: Auditor General decries low implementation of audit recommendations

Ruto argued that his position was unique since he had also served as a leader both in government and in the opposition.

This, he said, gives him an advantage in uniting the country.

“Nobody else has the network to unite both sides and push forward. That is why I must do all these things,” he said.

He asked Kenyans to forgive him if he stepped on toes in the process, stressing that his priority was to straighten the country.

“Allow me to straighten this country so that it moves in the right direction,” he said.