Lee Njiru, a close observer of Kenyan politics, recently expressed his concern over the current state of affairs under President William Ruto’s leadership. Njiru’s words were poignant: “I do not even know how my friend Ruto sleeps.
I think he is having sleepless nights.” This statement reflects the immense pressure and responsibility that come with leading a nation as complex as Kenya. The challenges are relentless, demanding attention 24 hours a day.
Njiru’s comparison between Ruto and his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, underscores a significant difference in their approaches to governance. According to Njiru, Uhuru had discovered a “medicine” to deal with Kenya’s problems—a method or strategy that, in his view, allowed him to manage the country’s issues effectively. In contrast, Ruto appears to be struggling to find or embrace this remedy, leading to what Njiru imagines as sleepless nights filled with worry and uncertainty.
The notion that a leader might struggle to find rest because of the weight of national issues is not uncommon. It speaks to the deep commitment and the overwhelming burden that comes with the highest office in the land. The challenges Kenya faces are indeed numerous and complex, ranging from economic instability, corruption, and insecurity, to social inequality and political unrest. Each of these issues demands not only immediate attention but also long-term strategies to ensure sustainable solutions.
Njiru’s remarks may also suggest a broader concern about the direction in which the country is headed under Ruto’s leadership. If the “medicine” that Uhuru knew is indeed a metaphor for a particular leadership style, policy approach, or political strategy, then Njiru’s observation could be a subtle critique of Ruto’s current methods. It raises questions about whether Ruto has the right tools and strategies to navigate the intricate landscape of Kenyan politics and governance.
The image of a sleepless president serves as a powerful metaphor for the trials and tribulations of leadership. It is a reminder that the role of a leader, especially in a country as dynamic as Kenya, is fraught with challenges that demand constant vigilance, adaptability, and resilience. Whether Ruto will find his own “medicine” to address these challenges remains to be seen, but the concerns raised by Njiru are a stark reminder of the immense responsibility that comes with the presidency.
