Lawyer Willis Otieno has sharply criticized President William Ruto over his defense of the government’s housing and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programs, calling for more substantive leadership beyond public statements.
President Ruto recently stated that his initiatives, while sometimes unpopular, were necessary for Kenya’s long-term development.
“If I were a weak leader, the housing and UHC programs would never have taken off… some people are now beginning to say maybe Ruto knows what he is doing,” he remarked during a public engagement.
Otieno responded on X, likening the president’s claims to a novice posing as an expert.
“This is like a kid proudly telling you he knows how to drive while still reversing into every wall on the street. Kenya deserves a president who actually knows, not one who thinks knowing means smiling for cameras while the country burns,” he said.
The remarks underline ongoing debates about the management of Ruto’s flagship projects.
The housing program, intended to provide affordable homes, and UHC, which aims to expand access to healthcare, have faced criticism over delays, budgeting challenges, and questions over their practical impact on citizens.
The President’s Office is tasked with not only championing programs but ensuring oversight, accountability, and operational efficiency. Without these, projects risk falling short of public expectations despite high-profile launches.
Otieno’s statement reflects concerns within legal and civil society circles regarding governance standards and transparency in major national programs.
The lawyer emphasizes the importance of actionable leadership, suggesting that political messaging alone cannot replace practical results.