President William Ruto has disclosed that two key figures significantly shaped his political path.
Speaking on Saturday, November 15, during the ODM founders’ dinner in Mombasa, Ruto said the late former President Daniel arap Moi and the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga were instrumental in his rise.
He recounted being first elected to Parliament under KANU, noting that although his early interactions with Moi were challenging, the two eventually developed a strong working relationship.
Ruto said their initial disagreements gave way to mutual respect once Moi came to see his commitment and capability.

Ruto Discloses the Two People Who Influenced His Political Growth. Photo: Courtesy.
President William Ruto acknowledged the late Raila Odinga as a major influence on his political journey, recalling Odinga’s support during key moments, including his crowning as a Kalenjin elder.
Ruto described himself as one of Raila’s mentees.
He also highlighted his role as a founder of ODM in 2005, serving as Deputy Party Leader under Raila.
After the 2007 disputed election, Ruto held cabinet positions in the coalition government before leaving ODM in 2011 to form the United Republican Party (URP).
