Reuben Kigame Warns Kenya Sliding Back to Dictatorship Amid Rising Concerns Over Free Speech

Presidential aspirant in the 2022 elections, Reuben Kigame, has warned that Kenya is slipping back into dictatorship, accusing President William Ruto’s administration of suppressing free speech and undermining democratic freedoms.

Speaking during Citizen TV’s Daybreak show on Wednesday, Kigame criticized African leaders who congratulated Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election, despite questions surrounding the credibility of the polls. He argued that such actions amounted to endorsing undemocratic processes.

Kigame cautioned that Kenya’s democracy was regressing and expressed fears over the direction of the country ahead of the 2027 general elections. “Congratulating a president who has won an election through unfair means amounts to endorsing undemocratic processes — something other leaders should avoid,” he said. “Kenya has reverted to dictatorship, like the old times. We are also worried about the coming elections in 2027 because President Ruto is introducing bills to get rid of free speech.” He added.

His remarks come amid growing concerns from civil society and human rights groups about shrinking civic space and increasing pressure on independent voices. Kigame urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and defend the democratic gains achieved over the years.

Meanwhile, governance expert Dr. Koki Muli Grignon, who also appeared on the Daybreak panel, criticized East African governments for failing to set a positive democratic example for new EAC members. She said leaders must be held accountable for human rights violations and abuses of power.

Dr. Koki noted that evidence of atrocities and electoral injustices across the region was being documented for possible use in international justice frameworks. “We have reached a point where you cannot commit a crime against humanity as a leader and let it slide,” she said.

Both experts urged East African leaders to promote transparency, respect for human rights, and peaceful political engagement to preserve democracy and regional stability.