President William Ruto has stirred public debate after remarks suggesting that some countries have achieved fast economic growth because they operate under strict systems where leaders are rarely questioned.
Speaking during a public event, the President said nations that develop quickly often do so either under dictatorship or systems where decisions made by leaders are followed without resistance.
“The countries that have succeeded, either they have succeeded because they are dictatorships, where when a leader says we are going this way, you cannot say no or question. For us, we don’t have that luxury,” Ruto stated.
He explained that Kenya’s democratic system, although important, makes it harder to implement tough decisions. Unlike authoritarian governments, Kenyan leaders must deal with public debate, political opposition, courts, and constitutional limits.
President Ruto stressed that his government remains committed to economic and governance reforms despite criticism and resistance. He noted that democracy requires patience, consultation, and accountability to citizens.
However, his comments have attracted mixed reactions. Critics warned against praising dictatorship, arguing that such systems often violate human rights and silence citizens. Civil society groups have emphasized that although democracy can be slow, it promotes inclusion, freedom, and long-term stability.
Supporters of the President defended his remarks, saying he was simply pointing out the challenges democratic governments face when making bold policy decisions—not calling for authoritarian rule.
The remarks come at a time when the government is facing pressure over the high cost of living, economic reforms, and rising public dissatisfaction, reviving discussion on how to balance strong leadership with democratic values in Kenya.
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