Ruto and His Cronies: Dealers, Not Leaders, And The Economic Disaster They’re Orchestrating

When Kenyans went to the polls in 2022, they placed their trust in William Ruto and his allies, hoping for transformative leadership that would guide the country to economic prosperity. However, nearly two years into his presidency, it is becoming painfully clear that the electorate may have made a grave mistake. The leaders they chose are not builders of a nation but dealers—individuals whose primary focus is personal gain rather than the collective good. This harsh reality has set the stage for an economic decline that may take years, if not decades, to reverse.

Ruto and his inner circle have demonstrated a remarkable lack of understanding when it comes to governance. The complex task of reviving a struggling economy requires visionary leadership, sound economic policies, and a commitment to the welfare of all citizens. Unfortunately, these qualities are conspicuously absent in the current administration. Instead, what Kenyans have witnessed is a government more interested in deal-making and self-enrichment than in laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.

At the heart of this failure is a fundamental misunderstanding of the role of government. Ruto and his associates seem to view public office not as a platform for service but as a means to enrich themselves and their business interests. This dealer mentality has permeated every level of government, leading to a culture of corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement that is suffocating the Kenyan economy. Public resources are being diverted to projects that benefit a select few, while the majority of Kenyans are left to struggle with rising costs of living and dwindling opportunities.

Read Also: Morara Kebaso’s Exposés Are Kenya’s Best Shot At Ending Budgeted Corruption

The administration’s approach to economic management can best be described as short-sighted and self-serving. Instead of investing in industries that could create jobs and drive long-term growth, Ruto’s government has focused on quick fixes that generate immediate returns for those in power. This includes awarding lucrative government contracts to companies linked to the President and his allies, often at the expense of more deserving, competitive bids. Such practices not only stifle competition but also discourage foreign investment, as potential investors are deterred by the pervasive corruption and lack of transparency.

Moreover, Ruto’s business dealings raise serious concerns about conflicts of interest. Many of the businesses owned by the President and his associates are heavily reliant on government contracts and patronage to survive. Without the steady flow of public money, these enterprises would likely collapse. This dependency creates a dangerous incentive for the President and his cronies to prioritize their own financial interests over the needs of the nation. It also explains why the government has been so reluctant to tackle corruption and implement reforms that would level the playing field for all Kenyans.

The negative impact of this dealer mentality is already being felt across the country. Unemployment remains stubbornly high, inflation is eroding the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, and public debt is soaring to unsustainable levels. Instead of addressing these pressing issues, Ruto’s government has been preoccupied with consolidating power and enriching itself. This has left many Kenyans feeling disillusioned and betrayed, as the promised economic turnaround has failed to materialize.

In a functioning democracy, leaders are expected to inspire and uplift their citizens, to chart a course for the future that benefits all. Unfortunately, Ruto and his associates have shown themselves to be incapable of such leadership. They lack the vision, the integrity, and the commitment to public service that are necessary to guide Kenya through these challenging times. Instead, they are content to exploit their positions of power for personal gain, even as the country sinks deeper into economic despair.

Kenyans are now paying the price for electing dealers instead of leaders. The dream of a prosperous, thriving nation is slipping further out of reach with each passing day. The longer Ruto remains in power, the more entrenched these problems will become, making it increasingly difficult to reverse the damage. The country is in desperate need of leaders who understand that true economic growth comes from empowering citizens, fostering innovation, and creating a level playing field where everyone has a chance to succeed.

However, as long as the current administration remains in place, it is unlikely that we will see the kind of bold, transformative leadership that Kenya needs. Ruto and his cronies have demonstrated time and again that they are more interested in dealing than in governing. They lack the competence, the legitimacy, the integrity or moral obligation to govern.

The critique of Ruto’s leadership and that of his govern