During a gathering at State House Nairobi, a village elder expressed gratitude to President William Ruto for welcoming elders from across Kenya to the official residence. The elder highlighted the long wait of over six decades for such recognition at the highest government level.
"It is our prayer, Mr President, that God gives you long life," the elder remarked, acknowledging the president’s acknowledgment of community elders' role.
Adding a touch of humor, he requested additional time to tour the expansive State House grounds, saying, "If you could give us three or four hours to tour around State House." This elicited laughter and lightened the mood among attendees.
The elder also pledged continued support for national development initiatives, stating, "We are working hard for the success of the country."
President Ruto Defends Opening State House to Citizens
In response, President Ruto addressed criticism regarding his decision to invite ordinary Kenyans to State House. He emphasized that allowing citizens access does not diminish the institution's prestige but rather upholds their dignity and affirms that State House belongs to the people.
"Inviting you to State House is not undervaluing it as critics say, it is basically upholding your dignity as humans and leaders in this nation," Ruto said.
The president recalled hosting various dignitaries during his tenure, including kings and presidents, and expressed happiness in welcoming village elders.
He rejected views that State House should be exclusive to high-ranking officials, stating that opening the premises to ordinary citizens restores their sense of ownership of the institution.
