Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru has raised alarm over alleged high-level schemes by some powerful individuals to overthrow President William Ruto’s government. Speaking during President Ruto’s tour of Kirinyaga County on Saturday, Waiguru claimed that these individuals were keen to exploit the recent anti-government protests, predominantly led by Kenya’s youth, to remove the President from power.
The Governor’s statements have added fuel to the growing political tensions in the country, as she pointed to the alleged plotters without naming them directly. “Mheshimiwa Rais niliona watu wengine walikuwa wamekupangia mabaya. Walikuwa wanataka uanguke,” Waiguru said at a roadside rally, implying that certain individuals had malicious intentions toward the President.
Waiguru suggested that the protests, which have seen significant participation from Generation Z, were being used as a cover for a more sinister agenda aimed at destabilizing the government. The demonstrations, primarily driven by frustrations over the rising cost of living, have evolved into a broader anti-government movement, with some sections of the population calling for President Ruto’s resignation.
In a bid to counter these threats, Waiguru commended President Ruto’s decision to reach out to members of the Opposition, a move she believes has been instrumental in safeguarding his administration. “Wewe, na Mungu ako upande wako, ukajipanga na ukafanya vile unajua. Sasa tuko na serikali ya broad-based,” she said, emphasizing the President’s strategic collaboration with Opposition leader Raila Odinga.
This collaboration has seen members of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party co-opted into Ruto’s Cabinet, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive government. This broad-based approach has, according to Waiguru, fortified the government against any potential plots to unseat it.
Among those who have pledged their support for President Ruto’s administration is Mining Cabinet Secretary (CS) Hassan Joho, a former Deputy Party Leader of the ODM. Joho has vowed to serve and defend the government, reaffirming his commitment to the President. “Mimi nataka kumwakikishia Rais tutasimama, tutafanya kazi, na wananchi watatuelewa. Hapa ni job tu,” Joho stated, signaling his dedication to ensuring the success of Ruto’s administration.
Joho’s declaration is significant, as it reflects a broader trend within ODM, where several key figures have opted to work with the government, despite the party’s traditionally adversarial stance towards Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The allegations made by Waiguru have sparked a new wave of debate within Kenya’s political landscape. Questions are being raised about the identity of the individuals allegedly involved in the plot and the extent of their plans. While Waiguru did not provide concrete evidence to support her claims, her remarks have nonetheless heightened suspicions and fueled speculation.
As political tensions continue to simmer, the President’s ability to maintain a broad-based government and navigate the increasingly complex political terrain will be crucial. The collaboration between Ruto and Odinga, while unanticipated by many, may prove to be a stabilizing force in a country grappling with economic challenges and political uncertainty.
In conclusion, Governor Waiguru’s remarks have shone a spotlight on the fragile nature of Kenya’s current political environment. Whether these alleged plots to overthrow the government hold any substance remains to be seen, but what is clear is that the stakes are high, and the coming months will be critical in determining the future of President Ruto’s administration.
