Ruto Tells Kenyans in UK to Disregard ‘Bad Headlines’ in Local Press
President Ruto has told Kenyans in the UK to ignore negative headlines about Kenya and focus on the reforms his government is undertaking for the country’s long term progress.
Speaking at a diaspora town hall meeting in London on Wednesday, Ruto addressed concerns raised by Kenyans abroad about the political situation in Kenya and the prevalence of negative news. The meeting was part of his UK visit following a stop in Spain to deepen diplomatic ties and secure key economic partnerships.
“Our newspapers are full of bad news from the first page to the last, headline to headline. You’d think the country is burning,” Ruto said. “But I want to tell you, we have a country to protect and a future to build.”
He said his leadership strategy is about long term national transformation not short term popularity. On political instability and governance, the president said he will push through reforms despite resistance and unpopularity.
“If I can do it in five years why wait for ten? I could be popular and make convenient decisions but that’s not me,” Ruto said. “I choose to make the right decisions that will move Kenya forward.”
Attendees of the meeting expressed concern about the political wrangles in Kenya especially with the general elections still two years away. One participant noted that the persistent campaigning was causing national anxiety.
Ruto told them to shift focus: “The election is a one day event. Kenya is a work in progress every single day. We cannot focus on a one day job for five years.”
He also acknowledged the toxic nature of social media but highlighted its economic and social potential. “Yes social media is full of insults. But there are people using the internet to earn a living and support their families. That’s the space we are working to protect and expand,” he said.
The president’s visit to the UK is expected to conclude with the signing of several bilateral agreements particularly in trade, technology and financial innovation. This is part of a broader strategy to position Kenya as a key player in global economic and financial reforms.
As his government implements transformative policies, Ruto told the diaspora community: “I promised to lead from the front and that’s exactly what I will do.”
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Ruto Tells Kenyans in UK to Disregard ‘Bad Headlines’ in Local Press