Kenya Kwanza leaders, led by President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, have lashed out at retired President Uhuru Kenyatta over his recent call for a youth-led revolution, accusing him of incitement and hypocrisy.
Speaking during an interdenominational fundraiser in Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, the leaders blamed Kenyatta for the challenges facing President Ruto’s administration and warned him to stay out of local politics.
“The same man who presided over the proliferation of over 200 betting companies now wants to lecture us about the youth,” said National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro. “During his time, when young people woke up, all they found was betting opportunities.”
Lurambi MP Titus Khamala echoed the sentiments, stating, “We are firmly inside this government. We are going nowhere. Let’s stop this incitement of the youth.”
The leaders accused Kenyatta of double standards, criticizing him for allegedly sidelining the youth while in office but now portraying himself as their champion.
“Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, during his 10 years in office, appointed Mzee Moody Awori, then aged 91, as the chairman of the Sports Fund,” said Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa. “When questioned, he said young people are thieves, and he preferred appointing an elder. Today he says he loves the youth — that is hypocrisy. Unless he changes his ways, even Jesus will not return!”
Titus Khamala was even more blunt, remarking, “When you are retired—whether you are an MD or a president—allow those in office to work. It is ironic, absurd, and unbecoming for a retired leader to interfere with sitting leaders.”
Turning to international matters, the leaders praised President Ruto’s recent trip to China, dismissing critics who have questioned the fruits of the visit.
Kimani Ichung’wah, the National Assembly Majority Leader, said, “If we organize ourselves well, William Ruto will finish his first five years, win another term, and thereafter Weta and Musalia will be ready. Things are headed in the right direction.”
Farouk Kibet emphasized the need for unity, stating, “Let’s focus on development, not unnecessary political noise.”
Meanwhile, succession politics in Malava Constituency also featured prominently during the event, months after the passing of former MP Malulu Injendi. Kibet urged locals to elect leaders who promote peace and progress, saying, “Choose a leader who will not bring chaos and confusion.”
The Kenya Kwanza team was reacting to remarks made by former President Kenyatta during his keynote address at the Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit 2025, held at Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda. In his speech, Kenyatta called on youth across the continent to “stand up for their countries,” likening them to the “latter-day freedom fighters.”
