Former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s continued involvement in political debates has triggered renewed criticism and defence in equal measure, as questions resurface over how far retired heads of state should engage in active politics.
Economic analyst Ephraim Njega has weighed in, dismissing claims that Uhuru is crossing constitutional boundaries, saying the backlash is driven more by politics than law or principle.
“Moi supported and campaigned for Kibaki's reelection in 2007. Nobody had an issue with that. If Uhuru was supporting Ruto's reelection, nobody would be crying foul,” Njega said.
His remarks come at a time when Uhuru has faced sustained criticism from leaders allied to President William Ruto, who accuse him of interfering in politics despite retirement.
The tension has grown following Uhuru’s recent public remarks in Kirinyaga, where he called for unity and warned against divisive politics.
The debate has also been amplified by proposals from some Kenya Kwanza leaders, including Senator Samson Cherargei, who has pushed for a review of retirement benefits for former presidents accused of engaging in partisan politics.
Njega, however, argues that the Constitution is clear on political freedoms, insisting that retirement from office does not erase civic rights.
“All Kenyans including retired presidents have constitutional political rights. These include the right to support a candidate of their choice in any election. Retiring as president doesn't terminate freedom of speech or association as enshrined in the Constitution,” he said.
He added that such practices are not unique to Kenya, pointing to global examples where former leaders continue to play visible political roles without controversy.
“In advanced democracies, former presidents like Barack Obama and Bill Clinton have actively campaigned for their party candidates. It is part of democratic participation,” Njega noted.
According to him, the strong reaction from government-aligned leaders reflects political anxiety rather than genuine constitutional concern.
“The regime’s obsession with the former president shows lack of confidence on their part. Uhuru isn't as influential as they make it appear. They have no need to run scared,” he said.
Uhuru’s allies within the Jubilee Party have also defended his right to speak on national matters, arguing that attempts to restrict his political expression amount to political intimidation rather than legal enforcement.
They maintain that he remains a citizen with full rights to comment on governance and national direction.
The controversy has also revived comparisons with Kenya’s past leadership transitions, particularly former President Daniel arap Moi, who remained politically active after retirement, and former President Mwai Kibaki, whose post-presidency period was largely low-profile but still influential in political circles.