A coalition of 20 civil society organisations has strongly criticised President William Ruto over what they describe as profane and divisive public statements, warning that such conduct undermines the dignity of the presidency and erodes public trust in leadership.
In a joint statement issued on Wednesday following a meeting in Lukenya, the groups said Kenya is at a critical juncture, citing a shrinking civic space, economic strain, and what they termed as a gradual weakening of democratic institutions.
Concerns Over Democratic Backsliding
Led by Dr Kawive Wambua of Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi, the coalition argued that while Kenya’s democratic framework remains formally intact, its effectiveness is increasingly under pressure.
“Kenya’s formal democratic structures seem intact, but their substance is eroding under the weight of institutional capture, declining public trust, economic hardship, and a shrinking civic space,” Wambua said.
The organisations linked current public dissatisfaction to recent civic unrest, including the June 2024 Gen Z protests, which they described as a reflection of deeper systemic grievances.
Criticism of Presidential Conduct
The coalition accused the President of resorting to inflammatory rhetoric and personal attacks against political opponents, stating that such behavior diminishes the stature of the highest office in the land.
Representing Transparency International Kenya, Sheila Masinde cited constitutional provisions, including Articles 73 and 131, which define leadership as a public trust that must be exercised with integrity and respect.
“The conduct that continues to degrade the Presidency is appalling… authority assigned to a State officer is a public trust. It must bring honour to the nation and dignity to the office,” she said.
Call for “Political Hygiene”
The groups emphasized that the presidency should serve as a unifying national symbol rather than a platform for political confrontation. They called for what they termed “political hygiene from the top,” urging restraint in both speech and conduct among national leaders.
Alarm Over Civic Freedoms
Beyond rhetoric, the coalition raised concerns over alleged abductions, intimidation of civil society actors, illegal deportations, and interference with democratic institutions.
“The attack on civic space is unacceptable… we demand the immediate cessation of all actions that restrict these fundamental freedoms,” Wambua added.
They also warned that executive interference in independent institutions and legislation passed without adequate public participation could weaken constitutional governance.
Economic Pressures Highlighted
The statement further pointed to rising living costs and economic hardship affecting millions of Kenyans, describing the situation as a daily struggle marked by shrinking opportunities and uncertainty.
Calls to Institutions and Citizens
The coalition urged Parliament to assert its independence, the Judiciary to uphold constitutional safeguards, and security agencies to protect citizens’ rights.
They also called on Kenyans particularly young people to register as voters and remain actively engaged ahead of the 2027 general election, framing the period as pivotal for the country’s democratic trajectory.
The organisations maintained that leadership decisions at the highest level will determine whether Kenya strengthens its democratic institutions or faces further institutional decline.
