The Rise and Political Challenges of William Ruto: A Remarkable Journey

 One of the most perplexing stories in modern Kenyan politics is the rise of William Ruto. In 1991, Ruto was a regular at a place locally called "Jobless Corner," struggling to afford bus fare or even secure a meal. Friends recall him lamenting his financial woes. Astonishingly, a little over a decade later, this man became the Deputy President of Kenya, a position that effectively made him a co-president.

Humble Beginnings

Ruto's transformation was remarkable. In the early 1990s, he worked under powerful figures like Cyrus Jirongo, who was his mentor in the Youth for KANU '92 movement. This organization distributed vast sums of money to boost President Daniel arap Moi’s re-election bid in Kenya’s first multi-party elections. Jirongo, already a billionaire, took Ruto under his wing, teaching him the ropes of politics and influence.

While many in the Youth for KANU '92 squandered their newfound wealth, Ruto was strategic. He saved and invested wisely, using the opportunity as a springboard to build both his fortune and political career. Unlike others who quickly lost their wealth, Ruto capitalized on his position to secure a foothold in Kenya's political and economic landscape.

Ruto’s Political Ascent

From these early beginnings, Ruto’s strategic mind became evident. He aligned himself with powerful figures and leveraged his influence to rise within the ranks. By 2013, he was Deputy President, cementing his place as one of Kenya’s most formidable politicians.

However, his journey has not been without challenges. Following the 2017 elections, Ruto made several missteps. His vocal and premature bid for the 2022 presidency drew criticism and opposition from central Kenya leaders, who felt his ambitions were disrupting political stability. The repeated declarations by his allies proclaiming him as the inevitable 2022 president alienated key players, including Mount Kenya politicians.

The Handshake and Its Fallout

The political landscape shifted dramatically after the 2018 handshake between President Uhuru Kenyatta and opposition leader Raila Odinga. This agreement sidelined Ruto, signaling a realignment of power that did not include him. The handshake appeared to be part of a broader succession plan, excluding Ruto from Uhuru’s political vision for Kenya’s future.

Challenges Ahead

Despite his strategic prowess, Ruto now faces his greatest challenge. To maintain his political viability, he must decide whether to break from Jubilee and form new alliances. However, leaving Jubilee risks alienating his financial backers, whose fortunes are tied to his position within the government. This dilemma puts Ruto at a crossroads, forcing him to choose between his political ambitions and the financial network that sustains him.

Ruto’s ability to navigate these challenges will determine his political future. His rise from humble beginnings to the corridors of power is a testament to his discipline and strategic thinking. Yet, the political landscape has changed, and he must adapt to remain relevant.

The Verdict

Whether Ruto can overcome these hurdles and ascend to the presidency remains uncertain. His ability to regroup and craft a winning strategy will be critical in the coming months. Regardless of the outcome, his story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of politics and the power of resilience and strategy in shaping one's destiny.