BUSIA, Kenya — President William Ruto has intensified his criticism of opposition figures, singling out presidential hopeful Fred Matiang’i in remarks that underscore rising political tensions ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general election.
Speaking during an inspection tour of development projects in Busia County, the President made pointed comments about Matiang’i’s lifestyle, including his diet and physical fitness.
“I have not claimed that you eat at my place, I have just asked you to reduce the portions,” Ruto said.
“And if you were eating at my place, I would have reduced the amounts you eat,.”
The President argued that discipline in personal habits is essential for leadership, urging opposition leaders to adopt healthier lifestyles.
“They should reduce the portion and also exercise so that they do not sleep in rallies and meetings,” Ruto said. “They should reduce the weight and maybe then they will have an agenda and then come to face me in 2027. For now they do not have any agenda.”
Escalating rhetoric
Ruto’s remarks follow similar comments made a day earlier in Chwele, Bungoma County, where he appeared to respond to criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“Kwanza mimi nauliza wengine waende gym… Wacheni kula chakula mingi… Tumbo karibu inapasuka…” Ruto said in Swahili, in comments widely interpreted as targeting opposition figures.
Defending his own lifestyle, the President linked personal discipline to effective governance.
“I am intelligent enough to know when to cut weight so that I can concentrate on what I want to do. I am disciplined enough to know how much I should eat so that I can stay alert,” he said.
“You (opposition leaders) have eaten a lot to the extent you have become proud. Go look at yourself in the mirror and go to the gym. Look at your diet to avoid sleeping and misbehaving in public rallies.”
Political observers say the exchange reflects a shift towards more personalised political attacks, even as the country remains several years away from the next general election.
Matiang’i responds
Matiang’i, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary and emerging opposition figure, responded sharply while addressing delegates from the Jubilee Party in Narok County.
“First of all, I do not know why you are bothered by the way I eat because I do not eat at your wife’s house,” Matiang’i said.
“You have not seen me come to your house to ask for food from you or your wife.”
Also Read: Ruto defends remarks against opposition, says he is ‘not apologetic’
In a pointed rebuttal, he called for restraint and respect in political discourse, particularly from senior leaders.
“I only eat bananas from Kisii. We have so much respect for the leadership of this country and that is why I have not insulted you. You have not seen me ask you why you have lost a lot of weight.”
Early signs of 2027 political contest
The public exchange highlights intensifying political rivalry as potential candidates begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
While the President continues to emphasise development projects during his nationwide tours, the increasingly sharp rhetoric between government and opposition figures signals an early shift toward campaign-style politics.
Analysts warn that such exchanges could further polarise the political environment if policy debates are overshadowed by personal attacks.
