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As Kenya celebrated 61st Jamhuri Day at Uhuru Gardens on Thursday, December 12, 2024, Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley, a Kenyan-American politician and the first Kenyan to win a State Assembly seat in Minnesota, shared her perspective on President William Ruto’s leadership.

When asked to evaluate Ruto’s performance thus far, Huldah offered measured but heartfelt praise.

“I am not in the business of rating our president Ruto and how he is performing,” she said.

Adding that; “But I know that now that I am on this side (Kenya), I know that he has the heart for his people, and he is doing the best to make sure that he addresses the concerns of his citizens. And he continues to do that. That is all the citizens want – for their leaders to listen to their concerns.”

Huldah’s remarks came during an event steeped in national pride and symbolism.

On his part, President William Ruto began his Jamhuri Day speech by honouring Huldah Momanyi.

Ruto took a moment to celebrate Huldah’s historic achievement in the United States.

“Ladies and gentlemen, allow me another moment so that we can celebrate a distinguished Kenyan in our midst,” Ruto said, his voice resounding across the crowded Uhuru Gardens.

“A Kenyan-American, the first one to win a State Assembly seat in Minnesota, United States of America. In our midst, we have Huldah Momanyi. Mpigieni makofi jamani, huyu Mkenya ameenda Marekani na akashinda kiti ya ubunge kule (Applaud her, everyone. This Kenyan went to the US and won a congressional seat there.),” Ruto said.

Huldah, a rising star in American politics, represents a unique bridge between Kenya and the US, embodying the resilience and ambition of the Kenyan diaspora.

Her success has resonated deeply with Kenyans at home, offering a source of pride and inspiration.

Huldah, who hails from Nyamira County, made history in the November 5, 2024, US general elections as she secured a seat in the Minnesota House of Representatives.

Running under the Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party, she won with an impressive 64.78% of the vote, defeating Republican candidate Brad Olson.

Representing District 38A, which includes Brooklyn Park and Osseo, Huldah is the first Kenyan-born politician to hold office in the US.

Her victory is particularly symbolic in this district, home to a large number of African immigrants, including many Kenyans.

In her victory speech, Huldah expressed her joy and pride, marking her election as a significant milestone for both her and her community.

Huldah is only among a handful of Kenyan-born individuals who have made significant strides in politics, winning elections in their adopted countries.