Kenya Kwanza leaders, led by President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, have sharply criticized retiring President Uhuru Kenyatta for his recent call for a youth-led revolution. They accused Kenyatta of provoking the youth and displaying hypocrisy.
The leaders expressed their dissatisfaction during an interdenominational fundraiser in Malava Constituency, Kakamega County, where they voiced strong opinions about Kenyatta’s remarks. National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro was particularly vocal, stating, “The same man who presided over the proliferation of over 200 betting companies now wants to lecture us about the youth.” Osoro pointed out that during Kenyatta’s time in office, the youth were exposed to little more than betting opportunities.
He said, “During his time, when the youth woke up, all they found was betting opportunities,” calling into question the former president’s credibility when speaking about the welfare of the youth.
Lurambi MP Titus Khamala also expressed his discontent with Kenyatta’s recent statements. He firmly stated, “We are firmly inside this government. We are going nowhere. Let’s stop this incitement of the youth.” Khamala emphasized that Kenya Kwanza was committed to moving forward with the government’s agenda and warned against any efforts to disrupt or provoke the youth for political gain.
The leaders also accused Kenyatta of hypocrisy and double standards. They pointed out that during his time in office, Kenyatta largely ignored the youth and instead appointed older figures to key positions.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa highlighted this by recalling how Kenyatta had appointed Mzee Moody Awori, then 91 years old, as the chairman of the Sports Fund. Barasa criticized Kenyatta’s disregard for the youth, saying, “Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, during his 10 years in office, appointed Mzee Moody Awori, then aged 91, as the chairman of the Sports Fund. 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 didn’t hold back, accusing the retired president of overstepping boundaries by interfering with the current administration. He stated bluntly, “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.” Khamala’s remarks underscored the growing tension between the retired president and the current government.
The leaders also took the opportunity to address foreign affairs, particularly President Ruto’s recent trip to China. They defended Ruto’s visit, rejecting any criticism from opponents who questioned the outcomes of the trip. Kimani Ichung’wah, the National Assembly Majority Leader, expressed optimism, saying, “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 and focus on development, stressing, “Let’s focus on development, not unnecessary political noise.” He urged Kenyans to prioritize progress over political distractions.
During the event, the leaders also touched on the succession politics in the Malava Constituency following the death of former MP Malulu Injendi. Kibet advised the residents to vote for leaders who prioritize peace and growth, saying, “Choose a leader who will not bring chaos and confusion.”
The remarks from the Kenya Kwanza leaders came in response to former President Kenyatta’s keynote speech at the Second Annual Guild Leaders’ Summit 2025 in Kampala, Uganda. In his address, Kenyatta had urged the youth of Africa to “stand up for their countries,” likening them to “latter-day freedom fighters.” However, the Kenya Kwanza leaders were not convinced by Kenyatta’s call, believing that his past actions as president did not align with his current stance on youth issues.
