What You Need to Know
President William Ruto has cautioned his political rivals in the Mt Kenya region against using their differences to create divisions between him and the residents. Speaking at a memorial service, he emphasized the longstanding relationship he has with the community and asserted his right to visit any part of the country without seeking permission. Ruto aims to respond to critics through his work,,
Africa-Press – Kenya. President William Ruto has hit out at his political rivals in the Mt Kenya region, warning them against using their differences with him to create a rift between him and residents of the vote-rich area.
Speaking during the memorial service of the late Ol Kalou MP David Njuguna Kiaraho in Nyandarua County, Ruto maintained that his relationship with the people of Mt Kenya is longstanding and cannot be easily undermined by political disputes.
“I know how to work with the people from Mt Kenya,” Ruto said.
The President emphasised that the support he received from the region during the 2022 General Election was not something he takes lightly, adding that his engagement with the community has been built over time.
“I know the people from Mt Kenya voted for me. I understand that, and I am not a mad person or a fool,” he said.
Ruto further underscored that his political and personal ties with the region were cultivated over many years, dismissing claims that they could be easily broken.
“The friendship I have built with the people of Mt Kenya is not something that was accomplished in two or three days,” he added.
The Head of State also asserted his authority as President, insisting that he has the right to visit any part of the country without seeking approval from any individual or political faction.
“I am the President of Kenya, and I do not need the permission of anyone to visit any part of the country. I am free to go to any place, and I will not ask for permission from anybody, whoever you are,” Ruto said.
He took a swipe at his critics, saying he would respond to their accusations through his performance in office rather than engaging in political confrontation.
“Those who are pointing fingers at me here, I will answer them with my actions and deeds,” he said, adding that his focus remains on uniting the country.
Ruto pointed to the formation of the broad-based government as evidence of his commitment to national cohesion.
“I work hard to unite the country and that is why I formed the broad-based government to bring all Kenyans together,” he said.
The memorial service, held in Ol Kalou, brought together leaders from rival political camps, highlighting the deep divisions that have emerged in the Mt Kenya region following Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024.
Tensions were evident during the event, particularly when sections of the crowd broke into “One Term” chants as National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula recognised lawmakers in attendance.
Despite the charged atmosphere, leaders continued with the programme as they paid tribute to Kiaraho, who died on March 29, 2026.
The Mt Kenya region has historically been a significant political stronghold in Kenya, influencing national elections and political dynamics. President Ruto’s relationship with this area has been cultivated over years, especially during the 2022 General Election, where he garnered substantial support. Recent political tensions, particularly following the impeachment of Deputy President Gachagua, have highlighted divisions within the region, prompting Ruto to emphasize unity and collaboration among all Kenyans.
