Biography
William Kipchirchir Samoei Arap Ruto (born 21 December 1966) is a prominent Kenyan politician who has held various positions of power throughout his career.
He is best known as the fifth and current president of Kenya, a position he has held since 13 September 2022. Prior to becoming president, William Ruto served as Kenya’s first elected deputy president from 2013 to 2022, cementing his role as an influential figure in the country’s political landscape.
President of Kenya
William Ruto | |
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William Ruto: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos | |
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Full name: | William Kipchirchir Samoei Arap Ruto |
Stage name: | William Ruto |
Born: | December 21, 1966 (age 57) |
Place of birth: | Kamagut, Kenya |
Nationality: | Kenyan |
Education: | Kapsabet High School, University of Nairobi |
Height: | 1.62 numbers |
Parents: | Mzee Daniel Cheruiyot, Mother Sarah Cheruiyot |
Siblings: | Paulo Martin Ruto |
Couple: | Rachel Ruto (married 1991) |
Girlfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
The children: | June Ruto, Charlene Ruto, Nick Ruto, Abby Cherop Ruto, Nadia Cherono, Stephanie Jepchumba Ruto, George Kimutai Ruto |
Job: | Politician |
Net worth: | 400 million dollars (USD) |
Early life and education
William Ruto is a prominent Kenyan politician, born on 21 December 1966 in Kamagut, Kenya. He was raised by his parents Mzee Daniel Cheruiyot (father) and Mama Sarah Cheruiyot (mother) and has an older brother named Paulo Martim Ruto.
William Ruto received his early education at Kerotet Primary School And Wareng Secondary School before attending Kapsabet High School.
Career
William Ruto quickly rose up the political ladder, emerging as a prominent figure in Kenyan politics. He won a seat in the National Assembly representing the Eldoret North constituency, a position he successfully held in the 2002 elections. Using his role in parliament, Ruto championed youth causes and rallied support for the re-election of President Daniel arap Moi, playing a pivotal role in shaping Youth for KANU Group 1992.
However, his political career hit a snag in 2010 when he faced suspension from his ministerial post over corruption allegations. Undeterred, Ruto aligned himself with the newly formed government. United Republican Party (URP) and won the Vice Presidentship in 2013 alongside President Uhuru Kenyatta following their victory in the general election. Despite facing legal proceedings at the International Criminal Court for his alleged role in the 2007-2008 post-election unrest, Ruto has retained his influential position in Kenyan politics.
Throughout his career, William Ruto has demonstrated political acumen and adaptability. He has moved into various ministerial roles, including Minister of Higher Education, before making history as Kenya’s first Deputy President. In addition, he founded United Republican Party (URP) and spearheaded the formation of the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, demonstrating its dexterity in building strategic alliances for political gain.
William Ruto’s wise leadership and strategic moves culminated in his re-election in 2017 and a crucial victory in the closely contested 2022 presidential election, making him Kenya’s fifth head of state.
Social media
- Twitter: @WilliamsRuto
- Facebook: William Samoei Ruto
Personal life
William Ruto, 57, and Rachel Ruto have been married since 1991 after meeting at a Christian Union gathering while at university. Rachel Ruto studied education at Kenyatta Universitywhile William pursued botany and zoology at University of NairobiThey have six biological children: June Ruto, Charlene Ruto, Nick Ruto, Abby Cherop Ruto, Nadia Cherono, Stephanie Jepchumba Ruto and George Kimutai Ruto.
On February 26, 2024, William Ruto, his wife, and Charlene Ruto were among thousands of people who attended a mass prayer meeting of American evangelist Benny Hinn. During the event, Hinn’s daughter asked people to donate money to support their ministry.
The Ruto family is among several who have donated large sums of money, sparking controversy and criticism from those who say it is unethical for a public figure to support a religious leader known for his lavish spending.
Net worth
William Ruto, President of Kenya, has an estimated net worth of over $400 million. His successful political career and involvement in other activities, such as farming, have amassed a significant fortune. Ruto is known as one of the wealthiest politicians in Kenya, with a huge range of properties and investments.