Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has called on President William Ruto to take responsibility for the challenges facing Kenyans, rather than blaming previous administrations. Speaking during a meeting with Jubilee officials in Nairobi on September 22, 2026, Uhuru emphasized the importance of admitting when policies or decisions fail and working to correct them. He encouraged leaders to accept responsibility and move forward, rather than repeatedly pointing fingers at others.
Uhuru's remarks came as he formally handed over the leadership of the Jubilee Party to his deputy, Fred Matiang'i, ahead of the party's National Delegates Convention. The transition followed a High Court ruling that clarified the political role of retired presidents and paved the way for Uhuru to relinquish his formal position within Jubilee. The ruling allows former presidents to remain members of political parties and take part in political activities, but bars them from holding leadership positions more than six months after leaving office.
Uhuru defended his record as president, citing the difficulties his administration faced during its time in office, including the Covid-19 pandemic and political tensions. He noted that despite conflicts and crises outside Kenya, his administration had managed to bring people together. Uhuru also defended his 2018 political agreement with former opposition leader Raila Odinga, commonly known as the handshake, saying it helped reduce political tensions and promote national unity.
The former president emphasized that political leaders should recognize that mistakes are part of leadership, but must be willing to admit them, correct them, and move forward. He urged Jubilee members to prepare the party for its next phase, including identifying candidates and building working relationships with other political groups. Uhuru also called for peaceful political competition, urging Jubilee members to cooperate with other groups while avoiding conflict as the party begins its next chapter under Matiang'i.
Uhuru's advice to Ruto comes at a time when the Kenyan government is facing various challenges, including economic and social issues. The former president's comments are seen as a call to action for the current administration to take ownership of its decisions and policies. By emphasizing the importance of accountability and responsibility, Uhuru is encouraging leaders to prioritize the needs of Kenyans and work towards finding solutions to the country's problems.
The handover of Jubilee Party leadership to Fred Matiang'i marks a significant transition in the party's history. Uhuru will remain a senior member of Jubilee and continue providing advice as Matiang'i takes charge. The party is expected to undergo changes as it prepares for the next phase, and Uhuru's guidance is likely to play a role in shaping its future.
As Kenya continues to navigate its complex political landscape, Uhuru's message of responsibility and accountability is likely to resonate with many Kenyans. The country's leaders will be watching closely as President Ruto responds to Uhuru's call to action and works to address the challenges facing the nation.
Key points
- Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged President William Ruto to take responsibility for Kenya's challenges rather than blaming previous administrations.
- Uhuru has handed over the leadership of the Jubilee Party to his deputy, Fred Matiang'i, ahead of the party's National Delegates Convention.
- The former president emphasized the importance of admitting when policies or decisions fail and working to correct them, rather than repeatedly pointing fingers at others.
