After two months of halted international travel and limited domestic appearances, President William Ruto has returned to his familiar routine of rooftop speeches and global tours. His frequent travels came to a sudden stop following public outcry and protests that erupted on June 18, 2024, in response to the government’s proposal of steep taxes in the now-withdrawn Finance Bill 2024.
The protests effectively grounded President Ruto, confining him to State House in Nairobi, where he made several uncharacteristic state addresses. At the time, his constant trips were among the grievances raised by the protesting youths, who decried the excessive waste of public funds.
During the unrest, Ruto cautiously stepped out to inspect a few government projects before quickly retreating to State House. Political figures and Ruto’s close allies also became wary of addressing the public from church pulpits, a venue they had frequently used to voice their political opinions.
As tensions eased, Ruto resumed his public engagements, beginning with a visit to Nakuru County on July 15, where he commissioned and inspected various facilities according to his itinerary. After laying the foundation stone for the Keringet fresh produce market in Kuresoi South Constituency, he addressed a large crowd, once again embracing his political rhetoric.
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On July 25, Ruto appeared atop his car’s roof during a visit to Tharaka Nithi County, where he addressed a roadside rally and defended his decision to reinstate several Cabinet Secretaries into his newly formed Cabinet. He also made a stop in Mombasa County on the same day.
Returning to his active schedule, Ruto made public appearances from his car's rooftop in Kilifi County on July 26, Kwale County on July 27, Murang’a County on August 9, and Kirinyaga County on August 10. On August 11, the Presidential jet took to the skies once again as Ruto flew to Rwanda to attend the inauguration of President Paul Kagame, marking the start of his extended term. However, Ruto returned to Kenya soon after, careful not to further inflame the already tense situation in the country.
In an effort to foster national unity, the President has formed what he describes as a 'broad-based government,' incorporating members of the opposition into his recently inaugurated Cabinet. Speaking in Sagana on Saturday, Ruto emphasized that this unity agenda is a key pillar for national growth without further division. He defended his decision to include opposition leaders in his Cabinet, stating that his priority is to ensure that the country speaks and acts with one voice.
