In 2019, Deputy President William Ruto criticized political manipulation during a Kilifi visit, accusing leaders of undermining unity by expelling colleagues while claiming to promote cohesion. He specifically referenced Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa's struggles within the Orange Democratic Movement, calling for inclusive national progress over divisive tactics.
Ruto emphasized that genuine unity requires broad engagement rather than selective efforts, rejecting gender-based targeting as a political strategy. 'Real men go after their fellow men and not use women as their punching bags,' he stated, vowing support for Jumwa amid party disciplinary actions against her.
The deputy president reiterated that all Kenyans operate under a single government, rejecting the need for elite approval to engage with state institutions. He highlighted corruption, resource mismanagement, and wastefulness as critical challenges, urging anti-corruption efforts to be evidence-based rather than politically motivated.
His remarks underscored broader concerns about political maneuvering that hinder national cohesion, with Ruto framing the fight against corruption as essential to Kenya's development agenda.
