Kabando: Ruto’s woes are of his own making
By Faith Lagat, July 11, 2025Former Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando has issued a stinging rebuke of President William Ruto, warning that the Head of State is running out of options as the country reels from growing unrest and mounting criticism over his leadership.
Speaking during an interview with K24 TV, he noted that Ruto has run out of options amid social unrest and mounting criticism of his leadership and statements made by the leaders on the protest’s aftermath.
Kabando’s remarks come in the wake of the deadly Saba Saba protests, where at least 31 people lost their lives and over 100 others were injured during clashes with police.
The former lawmaker faulted Ruto for failing to show remorse, particularly to bereaved families, accusing him of inflaming tensions through his leadership style.
“He has not apologised to the families of those who were killed, and the difficulties he is facing are of his own making,” Kabando stated, adding that the president’s current predicament is self-inflicted.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has confirmed a grim toll from the 2025 Saba Saba protests, stating that 31 people were killed, 107 injured, and 532 arrested across the country.
Two cases of enforced disappearances were also documented, along with widespread destruction of property whose value remains undetermined.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, July 8, 2025, KNCHR said it was continuing to monitor and follow up on all reports and incidents related to the July 7 demonstrations.
“We strongly condemn all human rights violations and urge accountability from all responsible parties, including the police, civilians, and all stakeholders,” the commission stated.
Drawing comparisons with Kenya’s past presidents, Kabando claimed Ruto falls short of the political maturity displayed by his predecessors. “When you compare the leadership of Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Moi, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, none can be likened to William Ruto. They may have made many mistakes, but you could never accuse them of political immaturity,” he said.
Kabando’s sharp critique centres on Ruto’s alleged disregard for constitutional principles. He accused the president of systematically violating provisions related to integrity and competence, warning that such actions threaten the foundation of Kenya’s democracy.
“President Ruto has violated and abused every article of the Constitution that addresses integrity and competence,” he claimed. He further accused the president of misleading both Kenyans and international visitors, suggesting a pattern of dishonesty that undermines trust.
These statements come amid growing scrutiny over Ruto’s controversial directive to police to shoot rioters in the leg—a move widely condemned by rights groups and opposition leaders. Kabando said such remarks reflect a leadership tone-deaf to public pain and lacking in accountability.
The former legislator argued that Kenya needs a president who embodies empathy, constitutionalism, and maturity, especially during turbulent times. His comments add to a chorus of voices urging the president to change course and rebuild public confidence.
Kabando’s remarks have sparked debate as Kenyans reflect on the nation’s democratic journey and the expectations placed on its leaders. With tensions still high and protests simmering, his words pose a tough challenge to Ruto’s administration: Can it reclaim public trust, or will it continue to slide deeper into crisis?