While President William Ruto has become one of Kenya’s wealthiest and most high-profile politicians, his brother Paul Ruto leads a markedly different life, surprising many who assumed he shared the same public prominence.
Early Life and Family Background
Paul Ruto is the eldest child of the late Daniel Kipruto Samoei Cheruiyot and Sarah Cheruiyot. Despite William Ruto’s rise to national leadership, Paul has chosen a quiet and modest lifestyle in Sugoi, the ancestral home of the family.
Residents note that he blends into the community, performing odd jobs around Eldoret, making it easy to overlook his connection to the Deputy President.
Growing up, the Ruto family faced significant financial hardships. Their father started as a small-scale peasant farmer, often struggling to provide basic necessities for his children.
This humble beginning influenced Paul’s decision to lead a low-profile life even as his siblings gained fame and influence.
Athletic Achievements
Paul Ruto is a retired middle-distance runner, specializing in the 800 metres. He gained international recognition when he won gold at the 1993 World Championships in Athletics in Stuttgart, Germany, clocking a personal best of 1:43.92.
Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, he represented Kenya in several major competitions, earning a reputation for consistency and strength in his event.
Relationship with William Ruto
Sources suggest that Paul and William have not always been on close terms. Media coverage has sometimes misidentified him as a cousin, though family records confirm he is indeed William’s brother.
Despite this, Paul has maintained his independence, prioritizing a quiet, grounded life over public recognition.
Current Life
Unlike his high-profile brother, Paul Ruto lives humbly, mingling with locals and staying away from political spotlight.
Old photos and identification cards have been used to verify his family ties, silencing skeptics who doubted his connection to the Deputy President.
Paul Ruto’s story reflects a striking contrast within a single family: one brother navigating global politics and wealth, while another remains rooted in modesty and community life.
Tags
Family