President William Ruto on Sunday said that serving 10 uninterrupted years in office is no easy feat, drawing laughter as he congratulated the newly enthroned Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Katakwa Diocese.
Speaking during the consecration and enthronement of the fourth Bishop of ACK Katakwa Diocese in Amagoro, Busia county, Ruto said the new bishop was fortunate to have a clear 10-year tenure before retirement, before making a light-hearted comparison with elective leadership.
"I also want to congratulate our new bishop, Bishop Vitalis. Congratulations, my friend, and welcome to Kenya's leadership, starting here in Katakwa," Ruto said.
"I also congratulate Christians of this diocese and the people of Busia, Bungoma and Kitale, where our bishop will serve. Congratulations on getting a new bishop."
Ruto said he had listened as it was announced that the bishop would retire in 2037 after serving for 10 years.
"I have heard that he will retire in 2037 after 10 years. You are very lucky, Bishop," he said, prompting laughter from the congregation.
"Getting 10 years without a break is not easy. Some of us are trying very hard," Ruto added as the congregation laughed again.
The President then assured the new bishop of his support, saying he looked forward to working together in serving the people.
"I want to assure you that, as one of the leaders of the Republic of Kenya, you are welcome. Let us work together, and I want to commit to you my friendship and partnership as we serve the great people of this diocese," he said.
The consecration and enthronement marked the installation of Bishop Vitalis as the fourth bishop of ACK Katakwa Diocese, bringing together church leaders, worshippers and political leaders from across the region.
Sunday's ceremony in Amagoro was attended by Anglican faithful and leaders who witnessed the formal installation of the new bishop, who now takes over the spiritual leadership of the diocese as he begins his episcopal ministry.
The remarks came as political activity continues to gather pace ahead of the 2027 general election.
Ruto has repeatedly said he will seek a second and final term in office and has urged Kenyans to assess his leadership based on his administration's development record, including infrastructure, affordable housing, digital jobs, healthcare reforms and other flagship programmes.
At the same time, opposition leaders have intensified their campaigns across the country, seeking to rally support behind a united challenge against the Kenya Kwanza administration.
In recent months, both the President and his political rivals have increased public engagements, including church services, grassroots meetings and regional tours, as they position themselves ahead of the next election.
Ruto has maintained that it is ultimately Kenyans who will decide the outcome at the ballot based on the performance of those seeking public office
