President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday confirmed he will be seeking a second term, saying he is the best bet to continue propelling Kenya to prosperity.
In his first exclusive newspaper interview since taking office in 2013, the President told the Star at State House, Nairobi, that he will "definitely" be on the ballot next year.
He said his government has achieved a lot in a short time and and he wants to see major initiatives completed during his second term.
"I think the achievements we have been able to achieve over a very short span of time have been tremendous. Yes, there are still some challenges to do with corruption, but overall I will run again because I believe that Kenya has made very big strides in a very short span of time," Uhuru said.
He and Deputy President William Ruto were elected in March 2013 on the Jubilee Coalition ticket, securing 50.05 per cent of the vote.
Their win was challenged by Cord leader Raila Odinga who moved to the Supreme Court to contest the results, but the judges upheld Uhuru's victory.
During the interview, the President said significant progress has been achieved, despite being tasked with the enormous challenge of implementing the constitution.
Implementing the devolved system of government was one of the limiting factors of his presidency, he said.
"Although we have done very well, it has been a very challenging implementing new structures of government. But at the end of the day, when we see it work it is also gratifying, especially because it is my administration that is rolling it out," Uhuru said.
The President said his government has done well in fighting corruption and said the judiciary should play its part in eradicating graft.
He also urged the opposition to present any evidence of corruption to relevant authorities, instead of just talking about it.
"Do not even bring it to me. You can’t just keep shouting and talking and when asked for evidence, you have none to give. Let us be real because this fight does not belong to government along. It belongs to every single Kenyan," Uhuru said.
The President also urged governors to focus on priorities in their counties, instead of running to the national government all the time.
"If pyrethrum is important to you or potatoes are, get your people around there, focus and put the investments in those areas. Focus," Uhuru said.
Of his greatest regret, the President said it took longer than it should have to reorganise the security forces.
"That was something that ultimately — once we did it and we got a new team and greater cooperation among security actors — has seen a positive impact. You can see improved levels of security and our ability to deal with terrorism and other such issues," the President said.