His move to decline the offer in this year’s rally is in
contrast to a previous rally held which saw the President enjoy the ride
terming it as an unforgettable experience.
"It was a wonderful experience, it is great really and
absolute madness but it is an experience you cannot forget. The speed, you can
hardly see the road, the bents and they are really professional,” Ruto said after enjoying a ride in the previous rally.
But this year, the President has turned down the offer by driver Minesh Rathod
during a meeting at State House in Nairobi on Monday.
Ruto reminisced that though the moment was unforgettable, it
was a once-in-a-blue-moon experience that he will always cherish.
“It was actually a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but there (in
the field) things are not what they seem,” he said in a light moment.
Minesh efforts to persuade the President to take the ride
proved futile as he emphasised that it was unlikely his allies would allow it to happen.
“I don’t think my friends will allow for that to happen.
Last time when I attempted that, they really took issue with it citing safety
concerns,” Ruto disclosed.
The President further explained that the WRC 2025 was important
as it gave Kenyans a chance to experience the skills of Kenyan drivers, unite
and enjoy together.
He added that it also allows for tourism to flourish given
the number of people who come to Kenya from neighboring countries and other
continents to participate.
“Rally is important because it showcases Kenya as a sporting
nation and a chance for us Kenyans to enjoy and see the skills of our Kenyan
drivers and also Kenyans uniting with their fellows for an entertainment
weekend and tourists,” Ruto said.
WRC 2025 runs from Thursday to Sunday, March 23, 2025.
