Uhuru Owes Me Nothing, Deputy President William Ruto Affirms

Deputy President William Ruto has confirmed that President Kenyatta does not owe him any political debt.

Ruto, who spoke during a church service in Trans Mara, Narok County on Sunday, clarified that his support for President Kenyatta in 2013 and 2017 was unconditional.

“I supported President Kenyatta in 2013 and 2017 without conditions. The Head of State should not be pushed to backing my 2022 candidature,” Ruto remarked.

His sentiments come a day after President Kenyatta declared that he is not indebted to any individual as far as 2022 succession is concerned. Kenyatta dismissed claims that he reneged on his promise to support Ruto once he completes his 10-year reign.

“Some people keep saying I made a promise to them, no, I only have a promise and covenant with the people of Kenya. That is the promise I am implementing,” said Uhuru during a meeting with Mt. Kenya leaders in Sagana.

He added: “I want to state that I negotiated with the Kalenjin community and Kikuyu elders as well for us to join forces so no one should blame me over anything.”

Uhuru also promised to convene a meeting before the end of his term, where the Mt. Kenya region’s political future would be discussed.

“I want to say we will convene a similar meeting like this to chart our way forward on who to support, we cannot allow our community to be auctioned,” Kenyatta said.

But in a rejoinder, Ruto said he will not allow the country to be taken back to ethnic-based politics, which he termed as dangerous and retrogressive. 

“I decline the invitation to the politics of tribe. We are one country and need to move forward together, our backgrounds notwithstanding,” said Ruto.