Africa-Press – Kenya. Former Attorney General Amos Wako has commended President William Ruto for his open-door policy at State House, lauding the decision to host events at the country’s highest seat of power.
Speaking during the launch of former Cabinet minister Major (Rtd) Marsden Madoka’s autobiography At The Ready, held at State House, Nairobi, Wako expressed surprise and admiration that such a significant event was hosted at a venue traditionally reserved for high-level state functions.
“I do not know if you got surprised when you got the invitation from Marsden to come for the launch,” Wako told guests.
“I was waiting to hear it would be at Serena Hotel, the Karen Country Club or some other place — but it was going to be at State House. I was very surprised.”
Wako, who served as Kenya’s Attorney General for two decades, said the event signalled a shift towards greater public inclusion in national spaces.
“Thank you, Mr. President, for making State House truly a house that belongs to the people,” he said.
“You allowed Marsden to launch his autobiography here, and that is very significant.”
He also paid tribute to Madoka and his wife, Elizabeth, calling them a couple whose close connection with State House, dating back to their youthful service, had left a mark on the institution.
“I do not know of any couple, short of the First Families, who have dwelt in this place from their youth, who married when they were here, and made enormous contributions on how this place should be run,” Wako remarked.
Ruto, who presided over the book launch, has in the past defended opening State House to the public is part of a broader commitment to democratise national institutions and foster greater public ownership of government.
Ruto has faced criticism for frequently hosting delegations, ceremonies, and gatherings at State House, with some detractors accusing him of using the presidential residence as a venue for political rallies.
At the book launch, Ruto described At The Ready as more than just a memoir — calling it a powerful reflection of a generation of patriots who helped shape Kenya’s modern identity through selfless service.
“Through his story, future generations will understand where we came from, and the sacrifices that paved the way for our progress,” the President added.
“My boss and mentor, Major (Rtd) Madoka, has always stood ready: ready to serve, ready to lead, and ready to sacrifice for his country and his people,” Ruto said.
At The Ready chronicles Madoka’s life as a military officer, civil servant, and Cabinet minister, tracing a journey that spans key chapters of Kenya’s post-independence history.
The book launch drew current and former government officials, military veterans, scholars, and family members.
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