President William Ruto has bluntly told critics who accuse him of planning to overstay in power that he has no intention of clinging to the presidency for twenty years, declaring point-blank that only a fool would endure daily insults just to remain in office.
Speaking during the Jukwaa la Usalama Reporting at State House Nairobi, the Head of State responded directly to persistent online chatter and opposition claims that he might attempt to extend his tenure beyond the constitutional two-term limit.
“Kuna wajinga wengine walisema ati nitakatalia kwa kiti miaka 20,” President Ruto said, drawing laughter from the audience of security chiefs, governors, and diplomats.
Kwani mimi ni mjinga nikae kwa kazi napigiwa kelele kila siku? Nangoja ile siku nitatoka hapa niende kabisa.” Translated, he asked whether he would be foolish to stay in a job where he is shouted at every single day, adding that he is eagerly waiting for the day he will leave State House for good.
The remarks, delivered in his trademark conversational Sheng, instantly went viral on TikTok and X, with clips amassing millions of views within hours. Supporters hailed the statement as proof of democratic maturity, while sceptics dismissed it as political theatre meant to calm growing youth discontent ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
The Jukwaa la Usalama Report, a national security assessment compiled after months of public participation forums, had recommended stronger civilian oversight of police operations and faster implementation of community policing units.
President Ruto used the platform to push back against narratives that his administration is becoming authoritarian, especially after the heavy-handed response to Gen Z protests earlier this year.
Inside the tented State House grounds, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki nodded vigorously as Ruto spoke, later adding that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains committed to serving only the constitutionally allowed ten years maximum. “We are not here to build dynasties. We are here to transform lives and hand over to the next generation,” Kindiki said.
Azimio principal Kalonzo Musyoka welcomed the assurance but cautioned that actions speak louder than words. “We have heard this song before from previous presidents. Let him put term-limit protection in the Constitution if he is serious,” the Wiper leader challenged.
On social media, the phrase “Nangoja ile siku nitatoka hapa niende kabisa” trended nationwide, spawning hundreds of memes showing Ruto packing suitcases and waving goodbye from the State House balcony.
As the sun set over State House, President Ruto wrapped up the event by handing copies of the security report to regional governors and promising monthly updates on implementation. Whether his light-hearted rejection of a twenty-year rule will quiet critics remains to be seen, but for now, the message is clear: William Ruto says he is ready and willing to leave when his time is up, and he certainly will not miss the daily drama that comes with the job.
