Makueni Senator Daniel Maanzo has delivered a stark message to President William Ruto, asserting that the Head of State has substantially diminished his support base as the 2027 General Election approaches. This assertion comes amid ongoing verbal exchanges with opposition leaders.
In a recent interview on a local television station, Maanzo criticized the president’s behavior during official events, claiming it has eroded his political goodwill among the Kenyan populace.
“His popularity has plummeted due to his dishonesty, and he continues to alienate voters with his insults. He did not gain support; instead, he has lost the backing of rational, adult constituents,” Maanzo stated.
The senator’s comments follow a controversial tour by President Ruto, during which he reportedly deviated from the expected decorum of his office.
During one event, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leader shifted his focus from crucial official briefings, such as the Chwele Market design, to launching personal attacks against opposition figures.
The president employed inflammatory rhetoric, including personal insults and body-shaming comments. He ridiculed one opposition leader for overeating, suggesting his head was growing disproportionately, and accused another of disinheriting a relative’s widow, touching on delicate family issues.
Despite support from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Maanzo contended that such statements undermine the dignity of the presidency, which should symbolize national unity.
The legislator emphasized that this behavior tarnishes leadership standards and estranges voters.
“People are realizing that this cannot be their leader. Insulting others does not benefit anyone,” he remarked.
Maanzo defended the opposition’s critique of the president as both legitimate and lawful, describing it as a fair comment. He explained that, by legal standards, fair comment allows individuals to express honest opinions on matters of public interest without constituting defamation.
“In legal terms, we refer to it as fair comment. When such comments are made about you, responding with insults indicates a failure to meet the standard,” Maanzo elaborated.
He asserted that the opposition’s statements stem from a place of accountability rather than malice.
“I believe the remarks made by opposition leaders qualify as fair comment,” he affirmed.
Maanzo cautioned that the president risks further political isolation if he does not adjust his approach. He argued that moving forward requires introspection and a data-driven strategy, rather than public outbursts.
“He should convene a meeting with his experts to analyze the country’s statistics. He must recognize that the nation is not aligned with him,” he advised.
The escalating political tension marks an early buildup to the 2027 elections, with heightened rhetoric from both sides.
