By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, April 25, 2026 - President William Ruto has rejected what he described as attempts by political rivals to dictate terms to him, saying he will not bow to individuals in exchange for support.
Speaking during a development tour in Maragua, Murang’a County, the President said leadership in Kenya is determined by citizens, not by a few individuals claiming influence over voters.
“They are giving us conditions, saying I must kneel before someone so that they can tell people to vote for me. They should forget that completely,” Ruto told the crowd.
In a message blending politics with personal conviction, he added: “I will humble myself before the people and kneel before God, but I cannot kneel before a human being.”
The President’s remarks appeared to respond to growing political tensions in the Mt Kenya region, where debates over influence and loyalty have intensified in recent weeks.
Without naming individuals directly, Ruto criticised what he called “arrogance” among leaders who believe they can control voter decisions.
“There are those who think they carry people’s votes in their pockets. That is not how democracy works,” he said.
Ruto maintained that his focus remains on service delivery, urging Kenyans to judge leaders based on performance rather than political endorsements.
“Did you choose me to serve you, or to go and kneel before others?” he posed.
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He also challenged the idea that political actors can dictate personal choices, from leadership preferences to everyday decisions. “Will they decide for you, or will you decide for yourselves?” he asked.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who accompanied him, called for a shift toward more respectful politics, saying leadership should be anchored on results rather than insults.
“Leadership should be about work that speaks for itself,” Kindiki said, referencing the style of former President Mwai Kibaki.
The President’s visit to Murang’a is part of a wider regional tour focused on development projects, even as political rivalry in the area continues to shape the national conversation.