Kenya: Opposition tells Prez Ruto- You are no Kibaki

Kenya's opposition leaders have criticized President William Ruto. They urged him to follow the example of former President Mwai Kibaki.

This call came during a memorial lecture for Kibaki, who died in April 2022. Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka praised Kibaki as Kenya's best leader.

Mr. Gachagua highlighted Kibaki’s strong development record. He called it a standard for good economic management.

He criticized the current government's actions, describing them as a "massive downgrade" from Kibaki's era from 2003 to 2013. He specifically mentioned the government's harsh response to students and journalists over a controversial play.

The play, "Echoes of War," was written by former Kakamega senator Cleophas Malala. It was supposed to be performed at the National Schools Drama and Films Festival in Nakuru but did not take place.

Mr. Gachagua remarked that even colonial governments did not target children like this administration has done. He expressed concern about the government panicking due to its first term challenges.

He noted that taxes under Kibaki led to visible development projects. In contrast, he accused the current government of imposing high taxes without delivering public services.

"Kenyans do not mind paying taxes," Mr. Gachagua said. "They only want transparency on where their money goes."

He urged government officials to understand that Kenyans are frustrated with misappropriated taxes, not taxation itself.

Mr. Gachagua shared a personal story about visiting President Kibaki as a university student seeking business funds. Instead of money, he received a book on guidance.

"This shows what kind of leader he was," Mr. Gachagua said, emphasizing Kibaki’s focus on empowerment rather than handouts.

He also criticized President Ruto’s government for prioritizing selfish interests over national welfare.

"It is clear that everyone talks about Kibaki because of his economic transformation," he stated.

Kalonzo Musyoka echoed these sentiments, noting that unlike Ruto, Kibaki treated leaders with respect after disagreements.

He recalled being fired by Kibaki during the 2005 referendum but appreciated how Kibaki handled it without disparaging remarks.

Mr. Musyoka praised Butere Girls students for their bravery in refusing to perform amid frustrations at the drama festival in Nakuru.

The second Mwai Kibaki Memorial Lecture took place on April 11, 2025, at Serena Hotel. It gathered political leaders from various backgrounds to honor his legacy and critique the current administration's agenda compared to Kibaki’s tenure.

Opposition figures highlighted achievements during Kibaki’s presidency in economic growth and education reforms while expressing concerns about Ruto's administration shortcomings in healthcare and housing programs.

Notable attendees included Francis Muthaura, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Gathoni Wa Muchomba, Cate Waruguru, and Jane Kihara.

Former Makueni Governor Kivutha Kibwana emphasized that successful projects stemmed from Kibaki's ability to implement ideas effectively.

"He focused on actionable ideas rather than casual talk," Prof. Kibwana said about his leadership style and listening skills during discussions.

Policy adviser Peter Kagwanja noted Mr. Kibaki trusted him with drafting Kenya's foreign policy which strengthened regional relationships.

Justin Muturi urged public officials to emulate Kibaki’s integrity as outlined in Chapter 6 of the constitution regarding leadership ethics.