President William Ruto has recently faced significant backlash for his “disturbing remarks” and “personal attacks” directed at political opponents, particularly during his Western region tour. Instead of offering an apology for these comments, the Head of State staunchly defended his actions, asserting that he was merely responding to attacks initiated against him. Speaking during a development tour in Funyula Constituency, he explicitly stated, “I was responding to those who started it. I am ready to face them one by one. One percent of my time I will deal with you… 99 percent I will serve the people of Kenya.” He further highlighted his personal discipline and fitness routine, seemingly drawing a contrast with those he implied were less diligent.

Observers have characterized President Ruto’s defense as a potential “diversionary tactic,” aimed at deflecting public attention from pressing national issues. His controversial remarks, delivered even during events officially designated as development tours, involved “a stream of insults and profanities.” Specific instances included body shaming, such as mocking a politician for having a “fat head” due to overeating, and airing personal allegations, like accusing another individual of disinheriting a brother’s widow. Reports also indicated that the President displayed “scant interest” in official explanations of development projects, such as the design for Chwele Market, opting instead to deride what he labeled a “brainless opposition.”

These public outbursts have elicited sharp criticism from a coalition of leaders operating under the banner of the Linda Mwananchi brigade. Prominent among them are Embakasi East MP Babu Owino and Siaya Governor James Orengo, who condemned the “unethical and unbecoming” public conduct of both President Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The group collectively argued that such behavior lowers the standard of public discourse and poses a severe risk to undermining constitutional values and national unity.

Babu Owino underscored the immense responsibility inherent in the presidency, cautioning that “emotional reactions” at such a high level of leadership could potentially lead to “chaos.” He stressed that leaders must uphold conduct that safeguards the image and integrity of the presidential office. Governor James Orengo intensified the criticism, issuing a stern warning that some of President Ruto’s recent utterances could “border on constitutional violations” and potentially constitute “misconduct,” a ground for impeachment. Orengo explicitly reminded the President of his oath to uphold the Constitution of Kenya, asserting that his recent remarks were inconsistent with the expected demeanor of a national leader and that state officers are constitutionally mandated to uphold dignity and promote national cohesion.

Notwithstanding the ongoing political confrontations, President Ruto reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering development, particularly emphasizing efforts to address historical marginalization within Busia County. He affirmed, “Busia has lost development opportunities for a long time due to discrimination. That must change.”

Concurrently, these heightened political tensions have also sparked internal disputes within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi publicly announced his decision to boycott an upcoming ODM National Delegates Convention (NDC), declaring it “unconstitutional.” He accused the organizers, reportedly associated with the Linda Ground Group, of attempting to “impose leaders without a competitive process” and issued a caution to Winnie Odinga against involvement in what he described as a “sinister motive,” while still acknowledging her democratic right to contest any position.