Ruto: I only kneel to God, not power brokers
By Aloys Michael, April 25, 2026President William Ruto has continued with his onslaught against his critics, declaring that he will only bow to God and humble himself to the Kenyan people, but not to any individual.
Speaking on Saturday, April 25, 2026, during a rally in Maragua Constituency, Murang’a County, the president responded to what he described as growing arrogance among some political opponents, whom he said were attempting to dictate terms in national politics.
He said rivals claim they alone can decide Kenya’s political direction, adding that some believe they control voters’ choices and can determine leadership outcomes at will.
“There are people who are very arrogant. They say they are the ones who will decide. They claim they are carrying people’s votes in their pockets,” the president said.
Ruto further said that some of his critics have attempted to impose conditions on him, suggesting that he must submit to their demands in order to secure political support.
“They are giving us conditions, saying if we do not do this, then I must kneel before someone so that they can tell people to vote for me. They should forget about that completely and abandon that arrogance,” he said in response to critics.
At the same time, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) chief maintained that a few individuals do not determine leadership in Kenya, but it is a collective decision made by citizens under democratic principles.
He said it is ultimately the people who will choose their leaders, guided by performance and service delivery.
“Nitanyenyekea kwa wananchi na nipige magoti kwa Mungu, lakini kwa binadamu siwezi,” Ruto said, adding that no individual has the authority to override the will of the electorate.
Ruto challenges critics
The Head of State also challenged the idea that political influence can be used to control citizens’ choices in areas such as religion, lifestyle, and leadership preferences.
He questioned whether any group could truly dictate how Kenyans live their lives or make their decisions.
“They want to decide for us the song we listen to, which church you will follow, where you will go, and which leaders you will choose. I want to ask you, will they decide for you or you decide for yourselves?” he posed.
He further defended his leadership mandate, reminding supporters that his role is based on public trust.
“Didn’t you choose me to work for you?” he asked.
“Did you choose me to go and kneel before others? Didn’t you choose me to serve you?”
His remarks come amid heightened political activity in parts of the Mount Kenya region, where leaders have intensified their campaigns.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who also addressed the rally, backed the president’s sentiments, calling for respectful and issue-based politics.
He referenced former President Mwai Kibaki, saying leadership should be guided by performance rather than insults.
“His Excellency Mwai Kibaki taught us leadership and politics free of insults, respectful, and work that speaks for itself,” Kindiki said.