President Ruto Responds to Uhuru’s Criticism of 2022 Vote

collage photo of William Ruto and Uhuru Kenyatta

President William Ruto has appeared to respond to his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, who recently criticised the Mt Kenya electorate for not heeding his advice in 2022.

Speaking on Wednesday, April 1, at the funeral of Kirinyaga County’s first senator, the late Daniel Karaba, Uhuru reminded voters of his counsel during the last election, urging them not to support Ruto for the presidency.

The former president also singled out clergy members, blaming them for influencing voters into what he called “wrong choices,” and warned that repeating such mistakes could bring worse consequences.

Days later, President Ruto delivered an indirect reply, insisting that no one, regardless of their status, can dictate to Kenyans whom they should elect. He referenced the Bible, highlighting that leaders assume office by God’s will, not by human influence.

“Some people are giving us long lectures, saying, ‘Oh, I said…’ What you said is yours, but what will happen is God’s will. Is there any leader who is elected by mistake? No matter how much influence you have, you will not decide; it is God who will decide. In 2022, many did not believe it was possible, but God had planned it,” Ruto said.

The President stressed that his victory in 2022, despite not having Uhuru’s backing, was part of God’s plan. He urged Kenyans to remain peaceful and united ahead of the 2027 elections.

“In 2022, many did not believe it could be possible for us, but God made it possible. In 2027, God will also plan. All I ask from Kenyans is to be peaceful and vote in unity; everything else will be taken care of by God,” Ruto added.

Ruto’s subtle counter comes as allies call on Uhuru to step back from politics and embrace retirement.

Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, speaking on Friday, April 3, at the graduation ceremony of boda boda operators at Kimasian Training Vocational College, accused Uhuru of undermining the current administration.

Cheruiyot argued that Uhuru portrays himself as a progressive leader while dismissing the challenges his government left behind.

He called on the former president to respect retirement, citing the examples of Mwai Kibaki and Daniel Moi, who both stepped aside after leaving office to allow smooth transitions of power.

Cheruiyot maintained that Ruto’s government is now addressing the issues left by Uhuru’s administration and warned the former president against repeating political interference.