Ruto’s North Rift Offensive Targets Kenyatta
President William Ruto has launched a direct personal attack against former President Uhuru Kenyatta, branding him a "serial political deceiver" and a "very big conman." The remarks were made during a ten-day development tour in the North Rift region, specifically in Nandi and Uasin Gishu counties.
The president’s comments signal the beginning of the 2027 general election campaign. Analysts view the attacks as an attempt to disqualify Kenyatta as a credible political sponsor before the opposition coalesces around a unified candidate for the August 2027 election.
Allegations of Betrayal and Deception
Ruto told supporters that he voted for Kenyatta four times and stood with him in 2013 and 2017. However, he claimed he was "betrayed" when Kenyatta allegedly told Kenyans not to vote for him after their ten-year leadership pact.
The president accused Kenyatta of deceasing former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Wiper Democratic Movement leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i. Ruto claimed that Kenyatta "sent him abroad" during the period in question.
Opposition Fractures and Dairy Policy Disputes
The political landscape remains fractured following the death of Raila Odinga. His first anniversary commemoration is scheduled in Bondo, Siaya County, where both Ruto and Kenyatta are expected to attend.
Separately, President Ruto faces criticism regarding his proposal to import buffaloes from India for dairy production. Nyandarua senator John Methu mocked the president’s proposal, calling him "Mtu ya Ebola" (Ebola person) during a Democracy for the Citizens Party rally on October 11, 2026.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua also criticized Ruto’s plan to import buffaloes and camels. Gachagua argued that the government should address problems affecting the existing dairy sector instead of introducing alternative livestock.
Milk Supply Decline
Formal milk deliveries in Kenya fell from 84.4 million litres in June to 81.3 million litres in July 2026. Consumers in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu are facing higher prices for fresh milk.