Ruto’s New Defense: Opposition Faces Now Back the Presidency
In a dramatic turn of events, President William Ruto has found unlikely champions in former opposition stalwarts, as his administration weathers intense criticism over unpopular policies. Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Ali Joho (Mining), John Mbadi (Treasury), and Suna East MP Junet Mohamed—once his fiercest critics—have now emerged as his staunch defenders, a shift that underscores the fluid nature of Kenyan politics.
Mbadi’s Fiscal Crusade
John Mbadi, once a sharp critic of Ruto’s administration and policies, is now on a mission to justify the government’s economic strategies. Once labeling Ruto’s Cabinet as “skunks,” the Treasury CS is now appealing for patience, promising reforms to improve the livelihoods of the middle class.
“The problem now is the middle class who feel they don’t have money in their pockets,” Mbadi explained recently. “Give me one year, and we’ll ensure there are changes in tax laws—positive and progressive—to put more money in Kenyans’ pockets. This isn’t something to condemn the President about; it’s something to find solutions for.”
Junet’s Controversial Stance on Public Participation
Junet Mohamed, another surprising addition to Ruto’s defense team, has sparked a public uproar by proposing to scrap public participation in development projects. Defending his stance, the MP stated, “Huwezi kufunga mdomo yangu. Jana nimeongea Taita Taveta na watu wananirukia, bwana, mdomo ni yangu, siasa ni yangu. Nasema my politics, my choice.”
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Devki Iron Processing Project in Taita Taveta, Junet reiterated the shared vision between Kenya Kwanza and the opposition. “Mambo ya Affordable Housing, na mengi yalikuwa katika manifesto yetu. Sisi kama upinzani tumesema kama mambo ilikuwa katika manifesto yetu, hakuna kitu ya kupinga.”
Joho’s Sharp Reprimand of Critics
Mining CS Hassan Joho, formerly a vocal opponent of Ruto, has now turned his rhetoric to chastise government critics, particularly those on social media. Joho lambasted Kenyans using online platforms to disparage leaders, labeling them “unpatriotic.”
“I want to tell the young people, nchi haiwezi pelekwa namna hiyo. You cannot sit online and lack patriotism,” Joho declared, referencing recent calls for Raila Odinga’s ousting from the African Union. “How unpatriotic can you be to wish ill upon one of your own just because of political differences? We will come for you, my friend.”
Joho’s remarks coincided with reports of government interest in a Ksh.120 million software aimed at monitoring online dissent—a claim yet to be confirmed.
Political Rebranding or Survival Tactic?
These former opposition figures’ transformation into government defenders has raised eyebrows among Kenyans, with critics questioning their motives. As they rally to salvage the President’s image amid mounting discontent, only time will reveal whether this strategy will mend the administration’s strained relationship with the public.
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Ruto’s New Defense: Opposition Faces Now Back the Presidency
