Deputy President William Ruto met with President Uhuru Kenyatta in an early morning session on March 1, 2019, to discuss allegations connecting him to a Sh21 billion dam-related corruption scandal. The meeting occurred as Kenyatta prepared to travel to Ethiopia, with Ruto reportedly seeking to address concerns about the political ramifications of the investigation.
According to sources, Ruto had engaged his inner circle in late-night discussions the previous day, focusing on the scandal's effect on his public image and potential unrest in his Rift Valley stronghold. Allies reportedly used a parable about a tortoise and eagle to illustrate their concerns, suggesting Kenyatta's actions risked damaging their political alliance.
Ruto reportedly criticized the handling of the investigation, alleging that media and opposition groups were colluding to implicate him. The meeting coincided with broader tensions over 2022 succession planning, with sources indicating the scandal could destabilize key political alliances if unresolved.
