Editor's Review

"Forgive me, Susan, I was hard on you," Ruto stated while revealing that she forced her to change her dressing style too.

President William Ruto has recalled confronting Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and at one time barring her from Nairobi.

The Head of State noted that in the mentorship course, she brushed shoulders with now Nakuru Governor over his hard stance.

Speaking during the launch of of the Women Governors Caucus G7 Strategy in Nairobi, on Thursday, March 7, Ruto narrated how she confronted Kihika and criticised her on how she was delivering her speeches. Ruto made it clear that she was struggling to get the gist of what she was saying.

"One time I called her and told her that I was listening to you and you are persuasive. I want you to rehearse your texts, don't leave home until you know what you are going to say at a political rally. Even if it means you have to cram three things. I had to take her through lessons," Ruto revealed.

File image of President William Ruto. 

Ruto also barred Kihika from setting foot in Nairobi. According to the Head of State, the move was key to helping her familiarise herself with the plight of Nakuru residents.

Besides placing an embargo on her Nairobi travels, Ruto also disclosed that she advised the Nakuru Governor to change her wardrobe to survive the turbulent political environment.

"Forgive me, Susan, I was hard on you. Another time I called her and said I don't want to see you in Nairobi. You must go and sit at the village," Ruto stated.

Nonetheless, Ruto revealed that most women leaders threw their weight behind her even when she was facing political hurdles under Jubilee's reign.

He also applauded Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru for making a daring move by ditching Raila Odinga and joining Kenya Kwanza. Ruto described the decision as transformational which even catapulted him to win the much contested Presidential Election in 2022.

Ruto thus vowed to support all the female leaders and champion gender inclusivity in his government.