Darren Walker, the president of the Ford Foundation, announced on Monday that he will step down from his role by the end of 2025. Walker, who is 64 years old, has served in this role for the past 12 years.

Speaking to the New York Times, Walker emphasized the importance of having a change in leadership. He revealed that he had begun discussing his departure with the board two years ago.

“Some people stay in foundation jobs too long because it’s intoxicating every day to be in a position where people are deferential,” he added.

Francisco Cigarroa, the chair of the Ford Foundation’s board, commented on the matter, stating that a search committee has already been convened to find Walker’s replacement.

Cigarroa praised Walker’s guidance during challenging times, saying, “Walker has guided Ford through some of the most challenging moments of our time with grace, kindness, and empathy, and his tenure will be remembered as one of the most consequential periods in the institution’s nearly 90-year history.”

During Walker’s tenure, the Ford Foundation has increased grants to organizations in communities, including grants to help women and girls across the globe.

However, his decision to step down as the head of the Foundation comes amidst allegations of sponsoring recent unrest witnessed in Kenya.

In a letter directed to Darren Walker, President William Ruto’s administration accused the Ford Foundation of funding about 16 Non-governmental organisations to fuel anarchy in the country. The Ford Foundation has refuted these allegations, stating that its key role in Kenya was providing charity to different sectors of the country’s economy.