We must make tough decisions for better Kenya, President Ruto says

President William Ruto has said his administration has been forced to make tough decisions for the nation's sake.

Speaking on Thursday, November 16, when he opened a two-day National Executive Retreat at the Edge Convention Centre, South C, Nairobi, the President said for the country to head in the right direction, not all decisions will please Kenyans.

The Head of State said his government's focus is long-term and for the greater good of the people, urging his Cabinet not to fear to make decisions that are in the country's best interest.

"We should never be short-term in our approaches to issues. You cannot afford to make convenient decisions because of what you think will earn you or give you some mileage," he said.

"We have had to make very important decisions, sometimes not very easy or pleasant to take the country forward. We must always make the right decision," he added.

The President further noted that he will not take the simple, convenient and popular path but a critical, bold and transformative one.

It will be difficult, he said, but "this will change our country for eternity."

The President further said continuous appraisal of Kenya Kwanza's work-in-progress is important as it would help fix government shortfalls and accelerate success.

"The quest for new ideas, approaches, and constant improvement will enrich our governance and elevate our delivery of the commitments we made to the people of Kenya," he said.

Ruto further asked Cabinet Secretaries to work as a team so that they could deliver on the promises they made to Kenyans during the campaign period. He asked CSs to stop faulting and pointing fingers at others and instead look for solutions as a team.

"This is our opportunity to understand that we are one team. The success of each and everyone of us is the success of all of us. We must never allow any of us to fail," he said.

The event, the 'National Executive Pitstop retreat,' has been promoted as a chance for the Cabinet to reflect on Kenya Kwanza's first year in office.

The retreat comes against the rising cost of living and excessive taxation.

The opposition has indicated it will reject the National Dialogue Committee report should it fail to address the high cost of living.

The 10-member committee, co-chaired by National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung'wah (Kikuyu) and Wiper boss Kalonzo Musyoka, checked in at Stoni Athi Resort in Machakos county to conclude the report amid growing concern that a deal may not be reached.

Azimio leaders say unless the Finance Act 2023 is repealed, the cost of living will be unbearable for most Kenyans.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said regular meetings allow the government to assess progress.

"We have a contract with the people of Kenya that can only be renewed upon our successful performance," he said.

Gachagua said the meeting is a platform to get each other's feedback on what they have achieved and what they need to do to offer better services.

Head of Public Service Felix Koskei said the government will hold an annual caucus and consult to share better and more diverse ideas.

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