From Youths for KANU in 1992 to Parliament in 1997, and to a member of cabinet in the grand coalition government in 2008, the tale of Deputy President William Ruto leaves a lot to admire. He has metamorphosised to arguably the most shrewd politician of our time. I may be wrong to brand him professor of contemporary Kenyan politics, but I may also be right. Which is what I am; dead right. It is his achievement that has drawn him enemies and friends in equal measure.
Now let's see. The following are reasons why Ruto is the most shrewd politician in Kenya today.
1. Ruto has an unparalleled charisma when he stands to address the public. No doubt you will hold your short call to listen to him. He cracks the most laughable jokes. 2. Ruto is an orator with a flawless eloquence. He is an outstanding public speaker that understands his content and audience. His mastery of the Queen's Language and it's flow makes public speaking appear a child's thing.
3. Ruto is intelligent. There is no doubt about his intelligence and wisdom. His choice of words and mastery of statistical information is unquestionable. He knows where and when to say what, and the expected effect of his words to the audience.
4. Ruto is very courageous. The DP does not fear telling off his competitors. He will face them head on, and on any issue he deems appropriate. He is on record locking horns with his former masters Raila odinga and Cyrus Jirongo.
5. Ruto is a mobiliser per excellence. He has been termed as a kingmaker following his intense campaign to drum up support for President Uhuru Kenyatta before and after the last general elections. He is a crowd mover and he knows how to win masses over.
Currently, there are other leaders with a number from the traits highlighted above. However, Ruto beats them because he is the undisputed ensemble of them all.