Former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama has hit back at former President Uhuru Kenyatta over his recent criticism of President William Ruto’s administration, accusing him of speaking too frequently despite his own record in office.
In a statement, Muthama said Kenyans still remember the challenges experienced during Uhuru’s 10-year rule, arguing that these issues played a role in the outcome of the 2022 General Election.
He dismissed claims that ODM leader Raila Odinga lost the election due to lack of support, insisting the result reflected a protest vote against Uhuru’s leadership.
According to Muthama, many voters were wary of Uhuru’s backing of Raila and used the election to send a message.
“Raila did not lose because Kenyans did not love or support him. Many voters wanted to send a strong message to Uhuru Kenyatta and his administration,” he said.
Muthama, however, noted that Uhuru remains respected as a retired Head of State, but urged him to exercise restraint in his public remarks.
He said while the former president claims he had warned Kenyans about the current administration, the decision on leadership ultimately rests with the electorate.
“The former president should understand that we respect him as our retired Head of State. While he claims that he advised us and we failed to listen, it is ultimately up to us to decide,” Muthama stated.
He added that Uhuru should allow President Ruto time and space to govern, warning that continued criticism could distract from efforts to address national challenges.
“The honorable thing for him to do is to give President Ruto space to work for Kenyans,” he added.
Muthama also referenced former Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, saying both leaders stepped back from active politics after leaving office and allowed their successors to lead without public confrontation.
“Uhuru should learn from Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki. Moi handed over power to Kibaki and kept quiet; Kibaki did the same after leaving office,” he said.
At the same time, Muthama cautioned that continued attacks on the current administration could trigger a response from leaders allied to the government.
“If Uhuru fails to stop attacking President Ruto, it may force some of us to expose all the negative things that characterized his government,” he warned.