Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has publicly responded to President William Ruto's continued criticism of his previous administration. On September 22, 2026, Kenyatta urged President Ruto to prioritize serving Kenyans over attributing current governance challenges to past leadership. This statement was made during the official handover of the Jubilee Party leadership in Nairobi. Kenyatta questioned why President Ruto's administration continues to invoke his name nearly four years after the transfer of power.
Kenyatta reflected on the peaceful transfer of power from his administration to President Ruto's, highlighting that it was done in broad daylight without resistance. He expressed concern that President Ruto continues to mention him in public statements, suggesting that the current administration's focus should be on serving Kenyans rather than dwelling on past leadership. Kenyatta observed that citizens are perceptive enough to distinguish between administrative performance and political rhetoric.
The former President addressed recent public statements by President Ruto, who labeled him a "sponsor" of opposition activities and a "rebel leader" allegedly backing political formations ahead of the 2027 General Election. Kenyatta asserted that he will not be intimidated by such insults and will continue to speak out. He defended his ten-year tenure, highlighting key infrastructural and socio-economic milestones achieved despite global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kenyatta acknowledged that no administration is immune to shortcomings but emphasized the importance of focusing on the present and future. He revisited the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), reiterating that the initiative was designed to establish an equitable framework for national resource distribution. This initiative was a significant effort to address issues of inclusivity and resource sharing in Kenya.
The handover of the Jubilee Party leadership was a significant event, following a September 14 ruling by High Court Justice Lawrence Mugambi. The judgment upheld Section 6 of the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act, which restricts retired presidents from holding executive roles in political parties beyond six months after leaving office. This ruling necessitated the transition of leadership within the Jubilee Party.
Kenyatta's remarks coincided with the formal transition of the Jubilee Party leadership to Fred Matiang'i. This transition marks a new chapter for the party, with Kenyatta's guidance and participation as a party member. The event was a notable moment in Kenyan politics, reflecting the ongoing dynamics within the country's political landscape.
The exchange between Kenyatta and President Ruto highlights the ongoing political tensions in Kenya. As the country approaches the 2027 General Election, political leaders are positioning themselves for the future. Kenyatta's call for President Ruto to focus on serving Kenyans underscores the importance of prioritizing the needs of citizens amidst political rivalries and criticisms.
Key points
- Kenyatta urges President Ruto to focus on serving Kenyans rather than criticizing past leadership.
- The handover of Jubilee Party leadership was necessitated by a High Court ruling upholding the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act.
- Kenyatta defends his administration's achievements and criticizes President Ruto's continued invocation of his name in public statements.
