President Ruto Admits Mistake for Not Allowing Daughter to Study Film

During the Kalasha Awards, President William Ruto publicly apologised to his daughter Culey Chepngetich Ruto for not supporting her dream to study film. Ruto, who was the chief guest at the awards, praised Kenyan creatives and shared that years ago, Culey had expressed interest in pursuing film at university. At the time, he did not allow her to follow that path and she ended up studying interior design instead. He reflected on her passion and admitted that, looking back, she was right to want to study film and it was a mistake on his side to stop her. The president made these remarks after visiting Tyler Perry Studios in the US with his family, which included his wife Rachel Ruto and their three daughters, June, Stephanie, and Culey. Ruto’s comments highlight the importance of supporting young people’s aspirations and recognising the value of creative industries in Kenya. He expressed hope that if his daughter is watching, she now understands he acknowledges his mistake and her original vision. The apology was warmly received, and the moment was one of the highlights of the awards night, showing a more personal and reflective side of the president.