President William Ruto hosted over 5,000 members of Maendeleo ya Wanawake at State House on Tuesday for a lively and informal gathering. During the event, the president defended his decision to open the official residence to ordinary Kenyans, countering critics who argue the venue should remain an exclusive space for high-level dignitaries.
The president revealed that some quarters have expressed disapproval over his approach, suggesting that State House should be reserved primarily for diplomats and visiting heads of state.
“Someone came and told me State House is a place for ambassadors, presidents, and other important people. But nowadays, when we come here, we find ordinary citizens,” Ruto remarked.
Critics have claimed that allowing such broad public access diminishes the prestige and status of the office. However, the president dismissed these concerns, framing the move as an elevation of the people rather than a reduction of the institution’s standing.
“He told me I have lowered the standard of State House. But I told him I have raised the standard of wananchi to access State House,” Ruto said.
President Ruto took the opportunity to warmly welcome the group, acknowledging the significant effort required for them to attend given their many daily responsibilities. He noted that balancing work and family life often makes such trips a challenge.
“You are all welcome here today. I know you have many duties from farming, taking care of children, running businesses and getting time is not easy,” he said.
The President encouraged the women to return whenever possible, expressing how much he values direct interaction with citizens at the grassroots level. “If you get another opportunity, no matter how small, please visit me again. I am very happy to have had this chance to engage with you,” he added.
Throughout his address, the President pointed to the vital role women play within both the family unit and the broader community. He noted that addressing the specific needs of women directly correlates to the overall well-being of the household. “Women’s needs are household responsibilities,” he said.
The atmosphere at State House transformed into a scene of celebration as the women met the President’s remarks with overwhelming enthusiasm. After he reaffirmed that the doors remained open for their return, the crowd rose to its feet in a wave of applause and cheers.
The excitement escalated as some members of the group broke into traditional ululations while others raised their hands to signal their approval. Rhythmic chants of “two terms” soon filled the air, with sections of the audience using hand gestures to signal their political support during the lively interaction.
Since assuming office, President William Ruto has frequently opened State House to a wide array of visitors, from grassroots organizations and youth groups to religious leaders and professionals. This strategy aims to foster direct public engagement and dismantle the perceived barriers between the presidency and ordinary Kenyans.
However, this practice has faced legal pushback. In January, lawyer Lempaa Suyianka filed a petition at the Constitutional and Human Rights Division of the High Court in Nairobi, seeking a declaration that such conduct violates the Constitution. Suyianka argues that government officials have unlawfully deployed State resources to advance the political interests of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
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