This archive report was first published on 23 August 2019.
President Uhuru Kenyatta has responded to the camp of Deputy President William Ruto, urging an end to what he calls 'dynasties' in Kenya.
Speaking during a memorial service for his father, Jomo Kenyatta, on August 22, 2019, Uhuru said that leadership is not about family background, but about one's ability to lead the country.
"When you hear people talking, oh this person is from this dynasty, oh that person is from that dynasty... but it's not about that, leadership is not about family where one was born," Uhuru said.
The remarks come as the 2022 general election approaches, with Ruto's camp saying that the election will be between those born into powerful families and those from humble backgrounds.
Those in the 'dynasties' category include ODM leader Raila Odinga, whose father was a vice president, Uhuru Kenyatta, whose father was the first president, Senator Gideon Moi, whose father was the second president, and Musalia Mudavadi.
On the other hand, Ruto is seen as a 'hustler' because his parents never held any leadership positions.
Ruto's camp has been opposing the proposed constitutional amendments that would increase the number of leadership positions, saying it's a ploy by 'dynasties' to maintain power and deny others a chance to become president.
"We will not accept dynasties again, we are all equal before God. A child of a poor person must also be a leader," Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa said.
