Ruto The Evangelist? Analyst Says Faith Messaging is Strategy

In an intriguing twist, President William Ruto has made public his ambition to become an evangelist once he completes his term in office.

In a discussion on the Talkchat Podcast, the implications of this revelation were unpacked by political analyst Dr. Michael Ndonye.

The conversation touched on what Ruto’s evangelistic vision could mean for the nation, especially in the context of Kenya’s religious diversity and the rapidly shifting political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

“President Ruto is not new to religious language,” Dr. Ndonye highlighted. “From the onset of his presidency, he has consistently framed his leadership through a spiritual lens. With word being that he was even a Christian leader while in the University."

While the President’s open declaration of faith may resonate with his Christian base, Kenya is a religiously plural society. Dr. Ndonye cautioned that such strong religious positioning by the Head of State could alienate segments of the population.

“The concern is not that the president is a Christian,” he clarified.

“The concern is the symbolism and influence of his faith when applied through state power. When both the President and the First Lady frequently speak in religious tones at public functions, it risks creating a perception of favoritism—an unofficial national religion, which goes against the spirit of inclusivity enshrined in the Constitution.”

Kenya is not made up of Christians alone. The country is home to Muslims, Hindus, atheists, and people of indigenous faiths.

While the President has made efforts to appear inclusive—frequently donning kanzus during Iftar dinners and attending Islamic celebrations—there is still a lingering feeling among some that the national tone is increasingly tilted towards Christianity.

In a country where religious language can stir emotion, unify crowds, and justify political agendas, Ruto’s use of faith is not accidental, it is strategic.

Dr. Ndonye notes that this move may set a precedent: “If other leaders observe that overt Christianity wins hearts and votes, then expect future politicians to follow suit. We are at the dawn of pulpit politics becoming mainstream campaign strategy."

The discussion also touched on recent political rumors swirling around Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Word in political circles suggests that Ruto’s camp may be eyeing Kalonzo as a possible running mate in 2027.

While word on the ground is that Kalonzo has declined the offer, political watchers are not convinced the idea has been shelved.

“They share more than people think,” Dr. Ndonye pointed out. “Kalonzo and Ruto go way back—they were both in KANU. That history matters.

They’ve worked together before, and they know how each other operates. Ideologically, they’re not far apart either. Both present themselves as family-oriented, faith-driven, and committed to conservative social values.”

Given this alignment, the possibility of a Ruto-Kalonzo alliance cannot be ruled out. “Politics is about timing and more importantly, it’s about alignment," Dr Ndonye stated.

The closer we get to 2027, the more the field will shift. He also noted that around a similar time as this next year, Gachagua’s conclave may no longer be existing .

As the discussion wrapped up, one thing became clear: Ruto’s post-presidency ambition to become an evangelist is not just a personal declaration.

It is a powerful political signal and strategy, one that could shape alliances, mobilize bases, and deepen the debate on the place of religion in Kenya’s public life.

With 2027 on the horizon, Kenyans are once again reminded that in this country, politics and the pulpit more often than not, walk hand in hand.