President William Ruto has sparked debate with his assertion that State House is now more accessible to ordinary Kenyans, reflecting his administration’s focus on inclusivity.

Speaking on August 9, 2025, while hosting the Nairobi County empowerment programme at State House Nairobi, Ruto dismissed accusations that he had lowered the institution’s standards. “ Kuna jamaa mmoja alisema nimeshusha standard ya State House;

“I have just improved the mere citizen to come to the State House,” he said, adding, “Every person matters for equality in Kenya.” He reiterated this message during the Nairobi County Empowerment Programme on August 8, 2025, underlining a vision of people-centred leadership.

Changing face of State House visitors

Ruto shared how visitors have been surprised by the diversity of people now visiting State House. “Unajua hapa State House, zamani waliokuwa wanakuja ni wale wadosi tu,” he explained. “Juzi kuna jamaa mmoja alikuja hapa; wakati alirudi akasema nimeenda pale State House, lakini huyu rais amezusha sana kiwango, kwa sababu siku hizi watu walioko pale ni watu tu hivi hivi.” Rather than being defensive, Ruto sees this as progress. “Lakini siku hizi, hata bodaboda wako around. Na hakuna makosa. Kwani iko makosa? Hakuna makosa . And there’s nothing wrong with that,” he said, emphasising the inclusion of over one million Boda Boda operators, a vital economic group.

Bottom-up economic agenda

This openness to all Kenyans is part of Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The August 9 empowerment event saw the distribution of motorcycles and equipment to grassroots groups, reinforcing this commitment.

Supporters like Homa Bay MP Peter Kaluma have praised the move, calling State House a “real State House” accessible to everyone, not just elites. Additionally, Ruto’s amnesty for detained motorcycles and proposed Motorcycle Regulation Bill further highlight support for informal sector empowerment.

Inclusion and security concerns

However, the approach has faced criticism, especially following the Gen Z-led protests in June 2025. The heavy police response, including razor wire barriers around the State House, drew rebuke. Nyandarua Senator John Methu questioned, “Lakini ukiskia Gen Z wanakuja kutembea unaseal off hadi na razor wire?” (But when Gen Z comes to march, you seal it off with razor wire?), highlighting tension between openness and security. Amid economic challenges and recent tragedies, some question if this inclusivity is more than a political gesture.

Ruto remains firm, stating, “We want a country that is united, and that begins by ensuring every citizen, from every walk of life, feels like they belong, even at State House.” The debate over true inclusivity continues as Kenya watches closely.