Kenya’s political temperature is rising as the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has issued a scathing open letter to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of refusing to accept President William Ruto’s 2022 election victory.
In a strongly-worded statement released by UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire and Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan, the party accused Uhuru of harboring “intense bitterness, fierce jealousy, endless envy, and toxic obsession with William Ruto.” The letter claims the former president has been working behind the scenes to undermine the Kenya Kwanza administration since leaving office.
The UDA leadership painted a picture of contrast between the two administrations. They accused Uhuru of leaving behind a struggling economy burdened by debt, high inflation, and weakened institutions. In defense of the current government, they highlighted achievements including stabilized economy, subsidized fertilizer programs, improved coffee prices, expanded healthcare through the Social Health Authority (SHA), and progress in affordable housing and infrastructure.
The letter specifically addressed fuel price concerns, arguing that the Ruto administration is pursuing long-term energy security through investments in local oil production, renewable energy, and electric mobility rather than unsustainable subsidies.
This public confrontation follows Uhuru’s renewed criticism of the government during a Jubilee party delegates forum at Kiambu Golf Club, where he urged leaders to stop divisive politics and acknowledge the economic pressure facing ordinary Kenyans.
The exchange highlights the deepening rift between the former political allies and signals what could be an increasingly confrontational political landscape as Kenya approaches future elections. You can read the full story at Nairobi Wire (https://nairobiwire.com/2026/05/uda-open-letter-uhuru-kenyatta-toxic-obsession-ruto-kenya-kwanza.html).
For those interested in understanding Kenyan politics better, we recommend “Kenya: A History Since Independence” to gain deeper context into the country’s political evolution.