'I have a right to speak': Uhuru fires back at political critics

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has told off critics who fault him whenever he speaks on matters affecting the nation.

Uhuru, while addressing a political gathering in Narok via his brother Muhoho Kenyatta’s phone, said he feels confined and at times finds it difficult attending public gatherings.

The function was the homecoming ceremony of Jubilee Party Secretary General Patrick Ole Kenta in his Purburush village in Narok County.

Uhuru took issue with his critics, who have singled him out whenever he speaks on matters affecting the nation, saying not even former President Daniel arap Moi was gagged in that manner.

“We worked with former President Moi and campaigned for the Orange and won, and Moi was not intimidated by Kibaki; he campaigned with us. When we lost our colleagues from Marsabit such as Godana, Moi joined us and we campaigned and won those seats for KANU against Narc. These days I speak on a few issues and I am told I am retired and should go home. Why was Moi not told to retire and go home?” Kenyatta posed.

He added, “I am not in active politics, but I have a right to campaign for my party. I seek no elective seat, but I am a Jubilee member.”

The former Head of State criticised a section of politicians, whom he did not name, accusing them of seeking to dissolve political parties in the country.

“It is worrying to see people who, instead of selling their party’s agenda, keep meddling with other parties. We will not be bothered by people who are out to fill their stomachs. We tell them we know our new crop of leaders; let them go engage in their politics elsewhere,” Kenyatta said.

On Matiang’i’s candidature, Uhuru vouched for his former Chief Cabinet Secretary, citing his track record.

“I know Matiang’i to be a rhino. He may be a newbie in politics, but he is a great worker,” Uhuru added.

Leaders who graced Ole Kenta’s homecoming, including Matiang’i, Governor Natembeya, and PNU leader Peter Munya, promised that the opposition outfit would stick together to unseat the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Uhuru’s remarks come hours after DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua declared that he will be on the ballot in the 2027 polls.