OBARA: Ruto’s defining flaw? A startling lack of imagination

Ruto’s Leadership Tested as Critics Cite Lack of Imagination Amid Growing Unrest
President William Ruto’s leadership is under intense scrutiny following months of economic discontent and nationwide protests, with critics accusing him of lacking the imagination and foresight needed to steer Kenya through turbulent times. Analysts and observers both locally and abroad say that the President’s recent policy decisions — including his controversial Finance Bill and Cabinet appointments — have eroded public confidence and exposed weaknesses in his administration’s political judgement.
Ruto’s presidency, once anchored on promises of reform and inclusion, now faces accusations of stagnation and tone-deaf governance. The Financial Times and the Council on Foreign Relations have both criticised the President’s handling of Kenya’s economy, calling his tax policies politically reckless and emblematic of a leader adrift. Even his allies, including lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi, have publicly warned that Ruto’s reliance on recycled political figures signals a deeper leadership problem. His endorsement of practices such as church fundraisers — long associated with corruption — has further dented his reformist image.
Public frustration has been palpable. The President’s decision to veto parts of his own Finance Bill after weeks of youth-led protests was seen as both a political retreat and a wake-up call. Many Kenyans view it as a turning point, a moment that exposed the growing gap between the government’s priorities and citizens’ realities. Political analysts argue that Ruto’s failure to tap into the energy, innovation, and creativity of Kenya’s youthful population represents a missed opportunity to redefine the country’s economic path.
As Ruto’s administration navigates the fallout, Kenya faces a critical juncture. The President must rebuild public trust and prove that his leadership can transcend campaign rhetoric. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, his ability to adapt and inspire may determine not only his political survival but also the nation’s direction. For many Kenyans, the coming years will test whether Ruto can transform from a master campaigner into a visionary statesman — or become another leader undone by his own blind spots