Why Ruto needs to serve for 20 years – DEVKI founder Narendra Raval

DEVKI Group founder Narendra Raval has once again sparked debate by suggesting that President William Ruto should serve for 20 years in office.

Speaking during the commissioning of the construction of the Devki Steel Factory in Tororo District, Uganda, on Sunday, he cited the Head of State’s economic reforms and leadership style as reasons for a prolonged tenure.

Speaking on Sunday, Raval praised President Ruto’s management of the economy, arguing that his policies have stabilised the currency, reduced inflation, and attracted foreign investment to Kenya.

“Again, I will repeat, although the Constitution does not allow, I will say you should be there for 20 years. I know the last time when I said this, I was heavily criticised, but if you want to remove unemployment in the country, we need this,” Raval said.

The DEVKI founder lauded the administration for reducing Kenya’s inflation from around 9 or 10 per cent to approximately 4 per cent, describing the achievement as a product of effective decision-making and expert guidance rather than political luck.

“A leader is not an expert in everything, but he hires the experts and takes the correct decisions at the correct time. I salute him because foreign direct investments have tripled in three years’ time. Congratulations!” Raval added.

He also emphasised that efforts to stabilise the economy, especially inflation, required competent advisory teams and timely interventions.

“He has reduced Kenya's inflation. That is not magic; he hired experts and made the right decisions at the right time,” the businessman noted.

Raval has made similar remarks in the past, calling for an extended tenure for President Ruto.

During the commissioning of a DEVKI steel plant in Kwale in 2022, he expressed his admiration for the president.

"I have no words to say but to thank him. He loves us so much; he loves this country. God give him 100 years of life. I wish that we had this president for 25 years," he stated.

Those earlier comments also generated controversy and drew criticism from several factions and netizens who argued that such remarks undermine constitutional term limits.

In his latest statements, Raval emphasised that the president’s leadership has been instrumental in creating a conducive environment for investment, business growth, and employment creation.

He urged Kenyans to recognise the impact of the current administration’s economic reforms and argued that continuity in leadership could accelerate progress in tackling unemployment and improving living standards.

President William Ruto had joined his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Museveni, for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Devki Steel Factory, Osukuru in Tororo District, Uganda

Already, the Tororo factory currently employs more than 400 workers, with plans to increase the workforce to 20,000 by 2027 across its East African operations.