Treasury CS John Mbadi has dismissed claims that President William Ruto is running the government in a dictatorial manner.

Speaking candidly, he emphasized that Ruto welcomes diverse ideas and actively engages in consultations.

Mbadi expressed confidence in the president’s leadership, stating that their collaborative efforts in managing the Treasury Ministry have been productive and insightful.

The CS defended the president’s active involvement across all arms of government, asserting that such engagement is essential.

“He is the one elected by Kenyans, and he must understand what is happening everywhere to avoid accusations of negligence,” Mbadi said during an interview on Spice FM.

He dismissed the notion that staying informed equates to micromanagement, highlighting that Ruto’s attentiveness is necessary for effective governance.

Criticism

Critics have recently pointed fingers at the administration, alleging disorganization and unilateral decision-making.

However, CS Mbadi has painted a different picture, describing Ruto as a leader who values input from his team.

“In the three months I’ve worked with him, Ruto has shown me he listens and values my opinions. If it were otherwise, I would say so,” Mbadi remarked.

Mbadi, one of four ODM members in Ruto’s Cabinet, reiterated that their contributions are aligned with achieving the government’s bottom-up economic agenda.

He credited the president for fostering a collaborative environment, saying, “This administration functions as one team under one leader. My role is to support him in executing his vision.”

The opposition and some citizens, particularly Gen Z protesters, have previously accused Ruto of fostering autocratic tendencies.

These sentiments gained traction and momentum during the anti-government protests between June and August 2024.

The Adani projects

Allegations also surfaced regarding inconsistent communication within the Cabinet, notably during the State of the Nation Address, when Ruto canceled the Adani projects despite earlier assurances from CS Wandayi that the initiatives would proceed.

Addressing these concerns, Ruto has consistently denied claims of dictatorship. In a July 2024 X-space discussion with Kenyans, he emphasized the separation of powers in government.

“I cannot decide for the Judiciary or Legislature. They are independent institutions, and I respect their decisions,” the president affirmed.

Mbadi backed this stance, stressing that the president’s approach is far from authoritarian. “What some want to hear is that Mbadi is being stifled, but that’s not true.

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“Since taking up this role, I’ve received the necessary cooperation to perform effectively,” he said.

However, as rumors persist, Mbadi’s statements offer a counter-narrative, portraying Ruto as a leader who listens, delegates, and collaborates.

While criticism lingers, the CS remains optimistic about the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises and address public concerns.