Raval, known for his outspoken admiration of the president’s economic policies, made the remarks during the launch of the new Devki Steel Factory in Tororo, Uganda, where both President Ruto and President Yoweri Museveni were present.
Raval told the crowd that he believes Kenya’s recent economic progress is tied directly to Ruto’s leadership style and the reforms introduced since he took office.
According to him, the momentum built over the past few years could transform the region even more if the same leadership is maintained for an extended period.
Although he openly acknowledged that the Constitution limits presidential terms, Raval still insisted that if Kenya hopes to tackle unemployment and stimulate long-term growth, then continuity is essential.
“I know some people criticised me last time,” he said, “but if we want real change and more opportunities for young people, we need strong and steady leadership.”
During his speech, the industrialist praised what he sees as major improvements in Kenya’s economic climate. He pointed to the stabilisation of the Kenyan shilling, reduced inflation levels, and the rise in foreign direct investment. For him, these achievements are not accidents but results of deliberate decisions made by the current administration.
Raval argued that a good leader does not need to be an expert in every field; rather, they must know how to bring in qualified professionals and act on sound advice.
He credited President Ruto for doing exactly that, saying the team around him has helped guide the economy through difficult times.
“Good decisions at the right moment—that is what builds a strong economy,” he said.
This was not the first time the Devki founder has expressed such admiration. In earlier years, Raval made similar remarks at another Devki project launch in Kwale, where he wished the president many decades of life and leadership.
Those comments also stirred controversy, especially among Kenyans who felt such suggestions undermine the country’s democratic principles and constitutional limits.
Despite the criticism, Raval continues to highlight the government’s efforts to support business growth, industrial investment, and job creation. He said the current administration has built an economic environment that gives room for new industries to take root and expand—something he believes should not be interrupted too soon.
At the Tororo event, Raval took time to emphasise the potential of the new steel plant, which already employs more than 400 people.
He explained that the company plans to expand across East Africa and increase its workforce to nearly 20,000 employees by 2027. For him, this kind of progress is proof that a stable government and investor-friendly policies create lasting opportunities.
President Ruto, who attended the ceremony alongside Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, applauded Devki’s decision to expand into the region.
He described the factory as a symbol of deeper economic ties between Kenya and Uganda and a step toward strengthening East Africa’s industrial sector.
However, Raval’s remarks about extending Ruto’s leadership quickly became the most discussed moment of the event.
Supporters agreed with his praise for the president’s economic agenda, while critics argued that Kenya’s term limits must always be respected, regardless of economic conditions.
Still, Raval encouraged Kenyans to look beyond political arguments and instead focus on the long-term impact of ongoing reforms.
He said that if the country wants faster job creation, more investment, and improved living standards, then stability and continuity will play a major role.
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