Ekuru Aukot: Kenyans see Ruto as the most corrupt politician
Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot has delivered a sharp critique of President William Ruto, questioning his credibility in the fight against corruption and accusing him of failing to act on key intelligence reports.
According to Aukot, the responsibility for accountability in government rests squarely on the President’s desk.
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“At the end of the day, the buck stops with the President. Many Kenyans see him as a liar and the most corrupt politician. Can he first shed these tags before castigating others?” he said in a TV interview on Monday, August 25, 2025.
He further faulted the President for admitting that he consumes raw intelligence reports but not taking decisive action on them. Instead, Aukot argued, the President either disregards the information or uses it to advance his political agenda.
Calls for real accountability, not pretence
Aukot also expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s approach to international benchmarking trips, accusing leaders of cherry-picking lessons while ignoring crucial aspects of accountability.
“This government is well known for benchmarking trips to countries that punish corrupt leaders. If we are truly going to benchmark, let’s also do it on accountability and taking responsibility. There is too much pretence, and that is what Kenyans are tired of,” he remarked.
The Thirdway Alliance leader emphasised that Kenyans have grown increasingly frustrated with a government that makes bold promises on integrity but fails to deliver concrete action. He argued that accountability must not only be preached but practised at the highest levels of leadership.
Aukot also criticised the way state officials are appointed, noting that political considerations often outweigh qualifications.
“The problem with our institutions is how the officials are appointed. They are not looking at the qualifications of people being appointed,” he added.
For Aukot, this trend undermines institutions meant to fight corruption and instead entrenches a system where loyalty and political alignment are rewarded over competence.
Mounting pressure on the Presidency
The remarks come at a time when Kenyans are increasingly questioning the government’s seriousness in addressing corruption, with many calling for structural reforms and independent oversight.
Aukot’s sentiments add to the growing chorus of voices demanding that the President lead by example, shed the labels that undermine public trust, and ensure institutions function free from political interference.
