MWE Correspondent
Kenyan President William Ruto has underscored his belief that democracy remains the best system of governance—despite its many challenges.
Speaking in Doha, Qatar, on November 9, 2025, during the World Summit for Social Development, Ruto said that genuine democracy thrives where leaders listen to opposing views, tolerate criticism, and avoid using force to silence dissent.
Ruto’s message came at a time when several countries in the East African region are still struggling with political transitions and the consolidation of democratic institutions. He said that although democracy can sometimes be “messy and unpredictable,” it remains essential for peace, development, and accountability.
“Democracy may not be perfect, but it is still the most sustainable way of governing people,” he said, calling on African leaders to embrace dialogue and constructive criticism as tools for national growth rather than threats to power.
In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Ruto declined to directly comment on Tanzania’s current political climate, saying every nation has its own path and pace in managing its affairs. However, he noted that in a truly competitive democracy, extremely high electoral margins—like those often seen in some regional elections—can raise serious concerns about fairness.
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“In Kenya, my victory was narrow, but that’s the nature of democracy. When you see someone winning with more than 90 percent, it should make you curious,” he said with a light tone, drawing laughter from the audience.
The Kenyan leader urged regional cooperation in safeguarding democratic principles, emphasizing that unity among East African nations can help protect freedom of expression and ensure leadership accountability. He added that the United Nations plays a vital role in encouraging nations to adopt inclusive governance practices and build stronger institutions.
Ruto’s remarks in Doha resonated with many observers who see Kenya as one of the most politically open countries in the region. However, analysts caution that the country still faces hurdles such as corruption, election credibility, and limited civic participation.
Despite these obstacles, Ruto’s message offered a hopeful outlook for East Africa’s democratic future. His speech reminded leaders that democracy is not a destination but a continuous journey—one that demands humility, dialogue, and respect for dissenting opinions.
