During the Akorino Annual Prayer Conference held at Nakuru Boys High School grounds, President William Ruto shed light on the strategic considerations behind his selection of Rigathi Gachagua as his Deputy President ahead of the 2022 General Elections. The President revisited the decision-making process, highlighting his dedication to fostering young leadership while valuing the importance of experienced partnership.
In his address, President Ruto disclosed that a specially tasked caucus of Members of Parliament (MPs) had been instrumental in evaluating potential candidates for the deputy position. The caucus leaned towards recommending youthful candidates, reflecting a desire for fresh and dynamic leadership. However, Ruto diverged from their recommendations, opting instead for Gachagua, whom he described as an age mate with whom he could work effectively.
“Ahead of the 2022 polls, I called these MPs and asked them to help on picking my deputy. These MPs held lots of deliberations and they directed me towards youthful candidates,” Ruto recounted. “But I told them no, let me settle on Gachagua. It was because I saw Gachagua was my age mate who we could work with him well and agree on many things.”
The President’s decision underscores a blend of experience and mentorship in his leadership philosophy. Ruto emphasized that the key to successful leadership lies in the mentorship of young leaders, preparing them to take on future responsibilities with competence and confidence. This commitment to youth development was a significant factor in his decision-making process when selecting Gachagua as his deputy.
Ruto reiterated his promise to support and mentor the next generation of leaders. He stressed that the true measure of leadership success is in nurturing the youth to become better and more effective leaders. By choosing Gachagua, Ruto not only secured a reliable partner in governance but also reaffirmed his dedication to creating a legacy of empowered young leaders.
“The success of any leadership is in mentoring the youth to become better leaders,” Ruto stated, reinforcing his vision for a leadership model that invests in the potential of the younger generation.
As the nation reflects on the journey since the 2022 elections, Ruto’s decision serves as a testament to his strategic approach to leadership—balancing immediate governance needs with long-term developmental goals. The President’s narrative at the Akorino Annual Prayer Conference offers a deeper understanding of his leadership values and the significance he places on mentorship and collaboration in steering the country forward.
