Peoples’ Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has strongly rebuked President William Ruto for his recent public attacks on opposition leaders, calling them “vulgar” and a breach of constitutional standards.
“This is vulgar William Ruto, unbecoming of your office and a violation of chapter six on leadership and integrity,” Karua tweeted on Wednesday, directly criticizing the Head of State.
She emphasized that the President’s conduct during his Western tour, where he insulted opposition figures and questioned their personal morals, undermines Kenya’s democratic norms and the dignity of the presidency.
The remarks come after President Ruto accused unnamed opposition leaders of promoting tribalism, hatred, and division.
In a series of statements, Ruto claimed some leaders had manipulated sensitive situations, including funeral and church gatherings, to mislead the public.
He also questioned their moral authority, stating they were unfit to guide the nation.
Ruto went further to address personal habits, referencing his critics’ weight and lifestyle choices.
“I am disciplined enough to know how much to eat to stay alert. For you people, you have eaten so much that your stomach protrudes and your head looks ready to burst,” he said, framing his statements as evidence of his discipline and focus on leadership.
Karua condemned the personal nature of Ruto’s attacks, warning that such rhetoric fuels division and distracts from substantive governance issues.
She stressed that the presidency demands respect, decorum, and adherence to Chapter Six of the Constitution, which outlines principles of leadership and integrity.
Political analysts note that the exchange highlights the increasingly personal tone of Kenya’s political discourse, with leaders trading public insults rather than focusing on policy debates.
Karua’s intervention underscores the opposition’s insistence on ethical conduct, accountability, and the need for issue-based political engagement.
With tensions rising in the country’s political arena, Karua’s rebuke signals a growing insistence that even the highest office must observe civility, restraint, and constitutional standards when addressing critics and the public.