Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has pushed back against claims by President William Ruto that he is funding opposition figures to undermine the government, cautioning critics against attempts to curtail democratic rights.
Speaking on August 23, 2026, in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, during the 23rd memorial service for former Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa, Uhuru explicitly rejected assertions that he serves as a financial backer for political movements seeking to unseat the current administration ahead of the 2027 general election.
Addressing a gathering at Wamalwa’s Milimani home, the former head of state dismissed claims that opposition leaders are political puppets operating on his payroll.
“Please, be careful. I don’t want to be called a sponsor,” Uhuru said, drawing applause from the crowd.
He emphasized that constitutional democratic ideals fought for by past statesmen must be protected, adding, “Freedom for Kenyans is to be able to elect the leaders they want. I’m here to defend that freedom. Nobody can take away that freedom that was fought for with blood and sweat by our leaders.”
The retired president clarified that he harbors no intention of returning to active political competition or seeking any public office, urging politicians to engage in peaceful campaign activities without preventing opponents from hosting rallies.
“If it is about asking for votes, let us do it in peace. Kenyans know who they want. If they say they want Kalonzo, Ruto, Matiang’i, or Sifuna, whoever they decide, it is up to them,” Uhuru noted, asserting that the ultimate political authority rests strictly with the electorate.
Uhuru’s public address comes amid mounting political friction following statements by President Ruto during regional church services accusing his predecessor of sponsoring opposition agitation.
During the event, Uhuru also launched a biography documenting the life and political legacy of the late Vice President Wamalwa, titled My Country First, for which he authored the foreword.
Political leaders present at the ceremony included Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, and PLP leader Martha Karua. The event concluded without disruption as leaders paid tribute at Wamalwa’s mausoleum.