In a statement shared on his official X account, Ruto lauded Raila’s contribution as insightful and timely, describing his message as resonant with the ethos of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“We have been honoured by the apt wisdom, insights, and ideas shared by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga during his address at the Third National Executive Retreat,” President Ruto said.
Raila’s keynote remarks included a strong call for national leaders to embrace what is right over what is merely popular—a sentiment that Ruto said mirrored the values guiding his government’s decision-making processes.
“His ringing call for leaders to focus on what is right rather than what is popular strongly resonates with the values of our administration,” Ruto stated.
The President further highlighted the significance of Raila’s views on national development projects, including affordable housing, fresh produce markets, and the expansion of critical infrastructure such as airports.
Ruto also noted Raila’s emphasis on embracing modern technology and Artificial Intelligence as part of Kenya’s transformation agenda. He said the government welcomed Raila’s commendation of its ongoing digitisation efforts.
“He also discussed the useful role of technology in national transformation, including Artificial Intelligence, and commended the government's continued digitisation of services,” the President added.
Raila, who signed a cooperation agreement with Ruto’s government earlier this year, addressed the retreat on its second day at the KCB Leadership Centre in Karen.
His presence at the high-level event signals a deepening collaboration between the two leaders, despite previous political rivalries.
The retreat, chaired by President Ruto, brings together Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and other senior government officials to review policy priorities, enhance service delivery, and foster intergovernmental coordination.
This year’s retreat focuses on
seven key pillars: the economy, agriculture, health, education, government
digitisation, MSMEs, and job creation.
