William Ruto Subtly Fires Jabs at Uhuru Kenyatta over Political Comments Ahead of 2027 Polls

President William Ruto has responded to political remarks made by his predecessor and former boss, Uhuru Kenyatta.

This follows Uhuru’s comments made last week during the burial ceremony of former Kirinyaga County senator Daniel Karaba, where he was accompanied by several opposition leaders who used the platform to criticise the current administration.

Among them was DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, who told the former head of state that the country’s situation had changed significantly since he left office, in what was seen as a direct swipe at President Ruto.

In his address, Uhuru appeared reluctant to engage in direct political attacks and instead spoke in his native Kikuyu language.

The former president reminded mourners of his advice ahead of the 2022 General Election, when he opposed Ruto’s presidential bid. He urged Kenyans to choose leaders, not politicians, warning against what he described as deceptive political rhetoric.

He further noted that he has been listening to citizens during his retirement at his Ichaweri home, adding that leaders should pay attention to public concerns and develop a clear plan ahead of the 2027 elections, amid growing opposition to Ruto’s administration.

The remarks were widely interpreted as a political jab at President Ruto, though he did not directly mention him.

Speaking during a church service in Kilgoris on Sunday, April 5, President Ruto appeared to downplay political exchanges, instead urging Kenyans to focus on their relationship with God.

He acknowledged that some leaders may come into office under difficult or controversial circumstances, referring to them as “viongozi waliochaguliwa kwa makosa” (leaders chosen by mistake) or “kwa bahati mbaya” (by misfortune). However, he stressed that according to biblical teaching, all authority is permitted by God.

“Every leader, or leadership that exists, is allowed by God. That is the truth as it is,” Ruto said, reinforcing a message of acceptance rooted in scripture.

His remarks, which referenced the 2022 electoral period, have been seen as a response to Uhuru’s comments, although the President did not directly address him by name or respond to specific claims.