William Ruto is a prominent political figure in Kenya, currently serving as the Deputy President under President Uhuru Kenyatta. However, despite his political astuteness and connection with ordinary Kenyans, he and his family have been surrounded by controversies. In this article, we will take a closer look at William Ruto’s family background, achievements, and controversies.
William Ruto Family Background:
William Ruto was born in Kamagut, Uasin Gishu County, to parents who struggled to make ends meet. Despite this, his parents instilled in him the value of hard work and determination. Ruto’s academic excellence earned him a scholarship to study Botany and Zoology at the University of Nairobi, where he graduated with a degree. He is married to Rachel Ruto, and together they have six children.
Controversies Surrounding William Ruto Family:
William Ruto and his family have faced several controversies throughout his political career. In 2007, he was accused of involvement in post-election violence in Kenya and charged with crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The violence that followed the disputed presidential elections led to the deaths of over 1,000 people and displacement of thousands of others. Although Ruto denied the allegations, he was later indicted by the ICC and charged with crimes against humanity. The charges were later dropped due to lack of evidence, but it fuelled his political career.
In 2016, Rachel Ruto was accused of fraudulently acquiring a public school’s land in a corruption scandal. The scandal involved the alleged sale of Lang’ata Road Primary School playground to a private developer, causing a public outcry. Although she was later cleared of all charges, the family continues to face scrutiny over their wealth and assets.
In 2016, Rachel Ruto, his wife, was accused of fraudulently acquiring a public school’s land in a corruption scandal. Although she was later cleared of all charges, the family continues to face scrutiny over their wealth and assets.
William Ruto Achievements:
Despite the controversies surrounding him and his family, William Ruto has achieved a lot in his political career. He has held various political positions, including being the Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Higher Education, and Deputy President of Kenya. He is also a successful businessman, with interests in various sectors, including real estate, agriculture, and energy.
As Minister of Agriculture, Ruto initiated several projects aimed at improving food security in Kenya. He introduced the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) subsidy program, which aimed at reducing the cost of maize flour, a staple food in Kenya. He also introduced the Kazi kwa Vijana (Work for the Youth) program, aimed at providing employment opportunities for young people in the country.
Rachel Ruto, his wife, has also achieved a lot in her career. She is a philanthropist and the founder of the Joyful Women Organization, which aims to empower women in Kenya. She has been involved in various charitable initiatives in Kenya, making significant contributions to education, health, and sports. Rachel has also been vocal about issues affecting women in Kenya, including gender-based violence and lack of representation in leadership positions.
Rachel Ruto, his wife, has also achieved a lot in her career. She is a philanthropist and the founder of the Joyful Women Organization, which aims to empower women in Kenya. She has been involved in various charitable initiatives in Kenya, making significant contributions to education, health, and sports.
William Ruto Business Ventures:
Apart from his political career, William Ruto is also a successful businessman. He is a shareholder in various companies in Kenya and the founder of the luxurious Weston Hotel. His interests span across multiple sectors, including real estate, agriculture, and energy.
William Ruto Philanthropy:
William Ruto and his wife are active philanthropists involved in various charitable initiatives in Kenya. Ruto has donated millions of shillings to support education, health, and sports, while Rachel Ruto focuses on empowering women through the Joyful Women Organization.
Image Credit: Rachel Ruto /TWITTER
