President William Ruto takes criticism from Kenyans more seriously than most imagine, according to State House insider and digital strategist Dennis Itumbi.
Speaking in an online interview, Itumbi, who heads the Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Coordination docket, revealed that the president personally reviews public criticism — and often acts on it.
“I screenshot negative comments, compile them, and send them to the president,” Itumbi disclosed. “Not to get anyone punished, but to give him a feel of the country’s mood.”
According to Itumbi, Ruto is a leader who welcomes opposing views, provided they are grounded in reason and respect. He explained that after presenting the criticism, the president frequently discusses the issues and sometimes initiates changes based on valid concerns.
“Sometimes he tells me, ‘Maybe this one didn’t understand — help them understand.’ Other times, he says, ‘This one is correct, I agree,’ and acts immediately,” Itumbi said. “Constructive criticism is good. In fact, critics are necessary — they are our fuel.”
The outspoken digital strategist emphasized that Ruto separates genuine public feedback from insults, noting that the president is quick to act on credible arguments, regardless of tone.
“If you feel you must throw in some insults, fine — just make your point. We take criticism seriously,” Itumbi added.
His remarks come amid rising concerns that Ruto’s administration is intolerant of dissent. In recent months, civil society groups and opposition leaders have accused the government of targeting online critics, with reports of harassment, abductions, and arrests.
However, Itumbi painted a different picture — that of a president keenly attuned to the public pulse and willing to adjust policies when presented with facts.
The strategist cited the recent uproar over the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, which many Kenyans believed was introduced by Ruto’s administration. The president later clarified that the law was first passed in 2018, noting that the amendments only strengthened protections for children and vulnerable groups online.
“Some critics reacted out of hysteria without reading the actual amendment,” Itumbi said, arguing that Ruto’s engagement with feedback helps dispel misinformation and refine government decisions.
He urged Kenyans to maintain a culture of “respectful disagreement”, insisting that the president’s willingness to listen is proof of a responsive and democratic administration.
“Critics make us better,” he concluded. “Without them, leadership would be blind.”
Editor’s Note:
Dennis Itumbi’s revelation challenges the prevailing public perception of an administration hostile to criticism — sparking fresh debate over how far openness in government truly goes under President Ruto’s watch.
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