Peter Wanyama, a legal expert, has declared that President Uhuru Kenyatta and Deputy William Ruto's political relationship is beyond reconciliation, citing escalating tensions and failed mediation attempts.
The division reached a new low during Madaraka Day celebrations on June 1, 2022, when Kenyatta conspicuously excluded Ruto from official events—a departure from past practices since the Jubilee administration took office in 2013.
Uhuruto's last Madaraka Day. Asanteni sana both! — Mohamed Wehliye, MBS (@WehliyeMohamed) June 1, 2022
Wanyama attributed the breakdown to public accusations by Ruto that Kenyatta influenced the Standard Gauge Railway's route to benefit his Naivasha property, which he claims caused significant political damage. He noted the president's public rebuke of Ruto, including by the first lady, as evidence of a complete breakdown.
The 2018 handshake between Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga, which preceded the 2017 elections, is seen as a pivotal moment that strained the relationship. Kenyatta's subsequent endorsement of Odinga's 2022 presidential bid under the Azimio la Umoja coalition further exacerbated tensions.
Despite efforts by religious leaders to mediate, including Ruto's public plea for forgiveness during the May 26, 2022, National Prayer Breakfast, reconciliation remains elusive. Ruto stated, "I ask for your forgiveness" for perceived shortcomings in his role as deputy.
Wanyama urged citizens to focus on personal matters rather than political conflicts, emphasizing the need for national unity amid the crisis.
