Butita says he has no regrets over Ruto association despite backlash

Comedian and creative Eddie Butita has said he does not regret being part of a delegation that included President William Ruto, despite facing public backlash following the trip.

Speaking in an interview with Milele FM radio host Jacquey Nyaminde, widely known as Wilbroda, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, Butita reflected on his participation in a high-level creative industry visit that included engagements in the United States, among them a trip to Tyler Perry Studios.

He described the experience as one of the most significant moments of his career, saying it exposed him to influential figures in the global film industry and opened doors for future collaborations.

“That was a high, high, high moment of my career that I usually ask if there is higher than that. I love to experience it again. God has given me so much,” he said.

Butita added that the visit allowed him to build valuable industry connections that continue to support his ongoing work in film production.

Backlash and political debate

The trip triggered significant criticism online, with many accusing Butita and other creatives of aligning with the government, particularly in light of the controversial Finance Bill protests.

Butita acknowledged the backlash but maintained that his participation was strictly professional and not political.

He admitted that he also had concerns about the Finance Bill but said he could not turn down a major career opportunity.

No regrets

Butita maintained that he stands by his decision to participate in the delegation, describing it as a defining moment in his career, noting that the fact that they sat down and decided to make him part of the initiative was significant.

“That moment you asked me, and I will not regret it 100%. To go with William, President William Ruto, and Tyler Perry Studios. The fact that they sat down and decided to make me an artist and be a part of this,” he said.

He added that it would be wrong to suggest they did not support him, saying that doing so would make him seem ungrateful and “a bad person.

He specifically highlighted the visit to Tyler Perry Studios as a major milestone, linking it to his long-term creative vision, including his Slate 100 initiative aimed at producing 100 films to strengthen Kenya’s film industry.

He said the delegation experience also exposed him to high-level creative networks that he continues to benefit from in his work.

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