Political Analyst Onyango Okello has offered a sharp assessment of Nyandarua Senator John Methu’s recent remarks directed at President William Ruto during the burial of Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho, warning that the senator may have crossed into dangerous political territory.
Okello, commenting on the incident that has since stirred debate in political circles, said Methu’s public declaration that he does not fear the Head of State reflects what he termed a “thin line between bravery and political misjudgment.”
“Methu is about to understand the thin line between bravery and stupidity. You cannot dare a head of state,” Okello said.
His remarks come after Senator Methu used the burial ceremony in Nyandarua County to openly challenge the President, accusing his administration of failing to fully deliver on development promises in the region.
The senator’s statement, “I respect you, Mr President… but I do not fear you,” became the focal point of the political tension witnessed at the event.
Okello argued that while political leaders are constitutionally entitled to express their views, the setting and tone of Methu’s remarks risked escalating unnecessary confrontation at a solemn national occasion.
He further suggested that the President’s decision not to directly respond to the senator’s remarks should not be interpreted as weakness, but rather restraint.
“It would have been better for Methu had the President responded to him. The fact that he did not should worry him more,” Okello stated.
According to the analyst, silence from the Head of State in such a scenario often signals calculated political control rather than avoidance. He warned that Methu may face long-term political consequences for his remarks.
“And we will be here to remind Methu that he said he does not fear the President,” he added.
The comments have intensified debate over the growing political divisions within the Mt Kenya region, where competing alliances and shifting loyalties continue to shape public discourse.
While some leaders have defended Methu’s remarks as a bold expression of accountability, others argue that the senator overstepped the boundaries of political decorum, especially in the presence of the President at a funeral.