Dadaab Member of Parliament Farah Maalim has articulated an extraordinary vision for President William Ruto's future at the helm of the nation. Beyond advocating for a re-election in 2027, the outspoken lawmaker has boldly proposed that President Ruto be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his "unprecedented transformation" of Kenya since assuming office in September 2022. More audaciously, Maalim has publicly expressed his intent to push for a constitutional amendment that would pave the way for President Ruto to return to national leadership as Prime Minister after his two presidential terms conclude in 2032.
Maalim's fervent endorsement stems from a deep conviction in President Ruto's developmental achievements and his efforts to foster national unity. "If Kenyans were truly nationalistic and patriotic," Maalim stated, "we would have already pursued a Nobel Peace Prize for President William Ruto for the unprecedented transformation he has achieved in our country over the past two years." This assertion underscores a belief that despite various criticisms, Ruto's tenure has delivered tangible progress worthy of international recognition. The former Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly even predicted an overwhelming re-election for President Ruto in 2027, particularly from the North Eastern region, where he vowed, "Ruto tutamchagua tena, tutamrudisha 2027 with 99% from North Eastern region. Wafugaji wote watampigia kura."
A cornerstone of Maalim's admiration lies in what he perceives as President Ruto's commitment to inclusive development, particularly for regions historically marginalized. Accompanying the President during a recent development tour of the North Rift, Maalim highlighted how Ruto's administration is "reshaping the landscape of Kenya, ensuring that regions which previously felt excluded from the national development agenda now feel included." He pointed to specific, impactful changes in the North Eastern region, such as new electricity connections and the commencement of road construction – initiatives that, according to Maalim, are being delivered for the first time since Kenya gained independence. He further praised the administration for dismantling alleged historical discrimination in the issuance of national identity cards, asserting, "For the first time since Kenya gained independence, we in the North Eastern region are receiving all the development we need... This is the first time we truly feel like we are Kenyans."
The most controversial element of Maalim's vision, however, pertains to President Ruto's long-term political future. Looking beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms for the presidency, the Wiper Party MP declared his intention to advocate for a radical shift in Kenya's governance structure: "Ruto will lead us until 2032; and when his term ends, I will push for a constitutional amendment to establish a parliamentary system, enabling President William Ruto to return as our Prime Minister." This proposal signifies a profound aspiration to secure Ruto's continuous leadership beyond his presidential mandate, sparking conversations about constitutional flexibility and political longevity.
