Kenya’s opposition leaders have sharply criticized President William Ruto’s
administration, urging him to emulate the leadership of the late President Mwai
Kibaki, who passed away in April 2022. The remarks came during the second Mwai
Kibaki Memorial Lecture on April 11, 2025, in Nairobi, where opposition figures
emphasized the contrast between Kibaki’s successful tenure and the current
government’s policies.
At the memorial event, which was held at the Serena Hotel, former Deputy
President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka praised
Kibaki’s remarkable legacy. Gachagua, in particular, highlighted Kibaki’s
achievements in economic growth and infrastructure development, noting that his
government was a model of sound economic management. He lamented that the
current administration, under Ruto, had fallen short in these areas,
criticizing what he described as a “massive downgrade” from the Kibaki era.
The former Deputy President also took issue with the government's harsh
response to the controversy surrounding the Butere High School play,
"Echoes of War," which was meant to be performed at the National
Schools Drama and Films Festival in Nakuru. He noted that the government’s
overreaction, particularly targeting students and journalists, was reminiscent
of authoritarian practices, and he emphasized that such heavy-handed tactics
were not even seen under the colonial regime.
Gachagua further expressed concern about the government’s taxation policies,
accusing the administration of imposing high taxes without delivering the
expected public services. He pointed out that while Kenyans did not mind paying
taxes, they were frustrated by the lack of visible development in return.
Kalonzo Musyoka echoed these sentiments, comparing Ruto’s leadership
unfavorably with that of Kibaki, who he described as respectful, tolerant, and
willing to listen to differing opinions. Musyoka recalled a time when Kibaki
had dismissed him from his cabinet in 2005 but chose not to disparage him
publicly, demonstrating a level of maturity and restraint that he believes is
lacking in the current administration.
The memorial lecture also saw tributes from others who had worked closely
with Kibaki, including former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi and former
Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana. They praised Kibaki’s integrity and focus on
practical solutions rather than empty rhetoric.
As the opposition continues to critique Ruto’s government, the Kibaki
memorial has become a pivotal moment to reflect on Kenya’s leadership
trajectory and the pressing need for change in governance.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0