Karua Faults Ruto Over Uhuru
In the view of most analysts, the use of former presidents in active politics undermines democracy and weakens political institutions.
Karua concluded by reminding leaders to uphold dignity when dealing with former Presidents. Photo/ KBC Digital
By Juliet Jerotich
NARC Kenya party leader Martha Karua has vehemently condemned President William Ruto for what she described as intentional attempts to utilize former President Uhuru Kenyatta to score political points.
Speaking during an interview on Kameme TV on Monday, August 4, 2025, Karua said Ruto is trying to paint a false image that he and Uhuru are politically united. She insisted that the move is meant to confuse Kenyans ahead of future political battles.
Karua said leaders should not drag retired presidents into active politics to serve their interests. “Uhuru deserves the highest respect as a retired Head of State,” Karua said. “When one finishes their term, they should be given room to rest and savor privacy.”
She stated that it is not proper to use Uhuru as a political symbol or shield. “We in the opposition would never hold onto him and use him in political warfare,” she stated.
Karua insisted that Uhuru should not be pulled back into day-to-day political wars. “He has already worked for this country. It’s time for him to have peace. Leaders must allow that,” she stated.
The politician’s comments came days after President Ruto and his allies suggested that Uhuru’s presence at State House while attending a virtual international meeting was a sign of political reconciliation between the two leaders. To them, the joint appearance was a sign of unity and possible re-election deal for 2027.
Karua brushed off this interpretation as part of a larger scheme to confuse the public. “I saw Ruto holding onto Uhuru just to make Kenyans believe that they are together,” she said. “That is not true.”
She went on to say that the President’s actions betray desperation to control public opinion. “He knows his government is crumbling like a pack of cards. That’s why he’s mentioning Uhuru’s name,” Karua maintained.
Karua called on political leaders to treat former Presidents with dignity and integrity. She warned that involving retired leaders in political gimmicks does not show anything other than weakness and lack of confidence.
“Involving Uhuru in political maneuvers does not show strength. It shows panic and failure to lead with integrity,” she further stated.
Karua’s remarks have reignited debate about the role of former presidents in Kenya’s modern-day politics. In the view of most analysts, the use of former presidents in active politics undermines democracy and weakens political institutions.
As the 2027 polls draw near, the political rivalry between Ruto and opposition leaders like Karua is expected to intensify. Even so, Karua maintains that respect for former leaders should remain a guiding principle in Kenya’s politics.
About Author
