Roots
Party leader George Wajackoyah has publicly called out President William Ruto
to curb the influence of his powerful aide, Farouk Kibet, accusing him of
undermining the government and fueling public discontent. Speaking at a public
event in Siaya County, Wajackoyah warned that Kibet’s unchecked authority risks
tarnishing Ruto’s presidency.
“Mr.
President, tame Farouk and his group. Tell them to calm down—this country is
bigger than them,” Wajackoyah declared, referencing Kibet’s alleged role in
issuing directives to cabinet secretaries, police chiefs, and senior officials,
bypassing formal structures.
Wajackoyah’s
remarks echo concerns raised by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who
labeled Kibet a “co-president” in a recent interview. Gachagua claimed Kibet
controls key government decisions, intimidates ministers, and even solicits
bribes for appointments. “Everyone reports to him—ministers tremble when they
see him,” Gachagua alleged.
The
controversy surrounding Kibet comes amid broader criticism of Ruto’s
leadership. Wajackoyah also criticized the president’s handling of the recent
National Drama Festival in Nakuru, where police blocked Butere Girls High
School from performing Echoes of War, a play by Cleophas Malala. He argued the
incident alienated Kenyan youth and stifled free expression.
“Invite
Butere Girls and their principal for tea, thank them, and visit their school to
mend ties,” Wajackoyah urged Ruto, warning that the youth are growing
disillusioned with the government.
Both
Wajackoyah and Gachagua’s warnings highlight a growing perception Kibet’s
influence could jeopardize Ruto’s legacy, potentially overshadowing his
policies with perceptions of a presidency swayed by unelected aides.
