Written by Were Kelly
President William Ruto has dismissed calls from his critics pushing for his exit after just one term in office, saying the ultimate verdict will be left to Kenyan voters during the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at State House during the Nairobi County Empowerment Programme, Ruto insisted that the so-called “one-term” narrative would not derail his administration’s plans.
“Wale majamaa wanajaribu kunitisha na one-term, nawaambia, we will not succumb to the blackmail, threats of one-term. We are committed to transforming our country,” the President said.
He urged Kenyans to judge all candidates on their track records when the time comes, adding that his focus remains on delivering on his manifesto.
The Head of State also took aim at those questioning the success of the Hustler Fund, accusing them of being out of touch with the realities of ordinary Kenyans.
He said the fund had so far disbursed over KSh 72 billion to 26 million Kenyans and mobilised more than KSh 5 billion in savings, proving its value as a tool for economic empowerment.
“Kuna wajuaji wengine walienda Serena wamelipwa pesa na NGO fulani… wanaenda pale wanasema KSh 500, KSh 1,000 haina maana kwa kuwa wanakunywa chai ya KSh 1,000. Hawajui ya kwamba hiyo pesa inaweza kumsaidia mtu kufanya biashara,” Ruto remarked.
He argued that the fund targets real struggles faced by citizens, unlike critics “lecturing from air-conditioned offices” without a grasp of grassroots challenges.
Ruto’s stance found unexpected support from opposition leader and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who recently urged Kenyans to give the administration space to work.
Speaking at the burial of former MP Dr. Phoebe Asiyo in Homa Bay County, Raila dismissed the “one-term” chants, noting that it is the electorate—not politicians—who will determine Ruto’s fate in 2027.
“To the naysayers, give us space and judge us in 2027. If you’re saying one term, one term… so what? It’s Kenyans who will decide the term,” Odinga said.
Both leaders have signaled that the political debate over 2027 will intensify in the coming years, but for now, the President says his focus is firmly on fulfilling campaign promises.
