President William Ruto’s two-day National Executive Retreat entered its final day today, Friday, June 20, 2025, with a notable addition: his broad-based partner, Raila Odinga, joined top government officials for the closing session at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen, Nairobi.

The high-level retreat, which began on Thursday, June 19, brought together Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, advisers, and key figures in government to address Kenya’s struggling economy, soaring unemployment, and growing public frustration over issues such as police brutality and lack of transparency.

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President Ruto calls Raila "Baba" as he arrived for day two of the 3rd national executive retreat at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen. pic.twitter.com/roJ1HdmCNO

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Focus on reforms

On the first day, President Ruto unveiled a major education infrastructure plan, announcing the construction of 1,600 science laboratories in public secondary schools.

He said the move would bridge the gap in science-based practical learning, particularly in marginalised areas.

“This government is committed to ensuring that no child is left behind due to lack of basic school infrastructure,” the president said.

Ruto also warned school administrators resisting the directive to collect school fees through the eCitizen platform, accusing them of opposing transparency and threatening action.

“There are school heads who still want to run opaque systems. We must embrace transparency. That’s the future,” he stated.

Raila’s role in dialogue

Raila’s presence at the retreat marked a significant political development, symbolising the ongoing collaboration between him and the executive.

Though he did not attend Thursday’s session, his participation on the final day underscores his role as a bridge-builder in national conversations on governance, reform, and accountability.

He is expected to deliver brief closing remarks highlighting the need for national unity, improved public service delivery, and inclusive governance.

What’s next for government

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Attorney General Dorcas Oduor, and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei were present throughout the retreat.

In his address, President Ruto emphasised urgency and unity within government:

“We cannot afford to fail Kenyans. This retreat is not a holiday, it’s a commitment to recalibrate and deliver,” he said.

Ruto is expected to announce new policy directives and set performance targets for ministries in the coming days as the government moves to restore public trust and economic stability.