Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s sharp criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration has reignited fierce political battles, with President William Ruto’s allies warning that his return to active politics could strip him of state-funded retirement perks.
The Jubilee Party leader, addressing delegates in Nairobi, accused the government of “rolling back the progress” made during his decade in power. He defended his record in healthcare, infrastructure, and education, saying the Big Four Agenda laid a strong foundation for growth.
But Ruto’s lieutenants hit back, dismissing Kenyatta’s claims as desperate attempts to remain politically relevant. They argued that he bears responsibility for the country’s current economic strain due to heavy borrowing and controversial projects under his watch.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei was blunt: “If Uhuru insists on engaging in active politics, Parliament will review and withdraw his retirement benefits. He cannot enjoy taxpayer money while undermining the government of the day.”
Mwala MP Vincent Kawaya went further, questioning what legacy Kenyatta was defending. “Fertilizer prices are down, maize flour is affordable, and Eurobond debts are being paid. What legacy is he talking about?” he posed.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki separately urged Kenyatta to engage in constructive dialogue instead of propaganda. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi accused him of hypocrisy: “You failed to fix HELB and NHIF. Don’t come back pretending to be clean.”
Despite the hostility, Kenyatta stood his ground, accusing the Ruto government of politically targeting him and undermining his legacy. He also hinted at a Jubilee revival ahead of the 2027 elections, declaring: “I am not going anywhere.”
His remarks drew mixed reactions in opposition circles. Alego Usonga MP Samuel Atandi defended him, saying the former president had every right to speak out, while Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ng’eno accused him of corruption and mismanagement during his tenure.
The escalating war of words underlines the unfinished political rivalry between Kenyatta and Ruto. Analysts suggest that the Jubilee Party leader’s re-entry could reshape the opposition landscape, positioning him as both a defender of his legacy and a potential rallying point for disenchanted voters.
With just under two years before the next general election campaigns officially begin, Kenyatta’s renewed presence signals that Kenya’s political battleground is already shifting.
