Rare gesture as Kalonzo wishes Ruto happy birthday
By Ascah Mwango, December 21, 2025Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has wished President William Ruto a happy birthday as the Head of State marked his 59th birthday on Sunday, December 21, 2025.
Speaking on a local TV station on Sunday, December 21, 2025, Kalonzo noted that December is a season filled with travel, Christmas celebrations and personal milestones. Before turning to political issues, he said it was important to acknowledge the President’s birthday on the day it fell.
“In December, a lot happens, people go to ushago and celebrate Christmas. Others celebrate their birthdays, I noticed I’m not alone, maybe I wish William Ruto a happy birthday, his was today before we go on his case,” Kalonzo stated.
The gesture stood out as rare, given Kalonzo’s position as a senior opposition leader and one of President Ruto’s fiercest critics.
Kalonzo has consistently challenged the government on economic policies, governance and the cost of living, often taking a hard line against the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Birthday and anniversary
President Ruto’s birthday coincided with his wedding anniversary with First Lady Rachel Ruto. The couple married on December 21, 1991, marking 34 years of marriage. The First Lady shared a message reflecting on their journey together and offering prayers for the President’s health, wisdom and strength as he continues to serve the nation.
“My dear Bill, happy birthday!” Rachel Ruto wrote.
“I have seen your heart for Kenya, your tireless commitment to serve, and the quiet sacrifices that often go unseen,” she added.
“As you mark another year, my prayer is that God grants you good health, inner peace, and renewed strength,” Rachel said.
Leaders from across the country also sent birthday messages to the President, with several praising his leadership and wishing him well. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and a number of Cabinet secretaries highlighted the occasion while pointing to ongoing government programmes and national priorities.
President Ruto was born on December 21, 1966, in Uasin Gishu County. He rose through the political ranks from Member of Parliament to Deputy President before winning the presidency in the 2022 General Election.