CS Ruku tells Uhuru to respect Ruto, warns against divisive politics

Speaking during a peace tournament in Njoro organised by area MP Jane Kathambi, Ruku said it was only fair for the former Head of State to reciprocate the respect he received from Ruto during his tenure.

He noted that President Ruto remained loyal and respectful throughout his time as Deputy President, and questioned why the same courtesy was not being extended now.

“When Uhuru was president, Ruto respected him fully as Head of State. His current posture does not reflect the same respect for the presidency. Why can’t he reciprocate?” posed Ruku.

The CS urged the former president to emulate the late Presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki, who largely maintained a low political profile after leaving office.

He warned that remarks from influential leaders could easily inflame tensions and polarise the country.

“We have seen nations disintegrate into conflict due to reckless statements. We must be careful not to push our country in that direction. If the country burns, we all burn,” he cautioned.

Ruku further called on Kenyans to reject leaders who exploit ethnic divisions for political gain, especially as the 2027 General Election approaches. He urged citizens to remain united and vigilant against politicians advancing selfish interests.

At the same time, he lauded President Ruto for consistently championing national unity in his engagements across the country and encouraged Kenyans to register as voters in large numbers to shape the country’s future.

Turning to Mt Kenya politics, the CS took a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of misusing the Mau Mau liberation narrative for political mileage.

He dismissed claims that any one individual could claim sole ownership of the struggle, noting that freedom fighters came from across the region.

“Every county in Mt Kenya contributed to the liberation of this country. No single leader should attempt to monopolise that history,” he said.

Ruku called on the GEMA community to remain united and resist attempts to sow division, stressing that the region’s strength lies in its collective voice and shared interests.

On public service delivery, the Cabinet Secretary issued a stern warning to officers in the National Registration Bureau, directing them to issue identification cards to eligible Kenyans without demanding bribes.

He termed the practice of soliciting “facilitation fees” as outright corruption that undermines trust in government institutions and disadvantages ordinary citizens.

Ruku urged public officers to uphold the values and principles enshrined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which guide governance and service delivery, including integrity, transparency, accountability, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.

He emphasised that public servants must serve Kenyans diligently and fairly, without discrimination or exploitation.

“Public service is a trust. Officers must deliver services efficiently and with integrity, as required by the Constitution,” he said.

The CS reiterated that the government remains committed to strengthening service delivery and ensuring that all Kenyans access essential services without unnecessary hurdles.