Kenya’s political temperature is rising as the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) fires back at former President Uhuru Kenyatta with an unprecedented open letter. UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire and Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan have publicly accused Uhuru of refusing to accept President William Ruto’s 2022 election victory and actively working to destabilize the current administration.
The strongly-worded letter pulls no punches: “Temper your intense bitterness, fierce jealousy, endless envy, and toxic obsession with William Ruto.” It’s a dramatic escalation in the ongoing feud between Kenya’s current and former leadership.
UDA claims Uhuru handed over a struggling economy burdened by debt, high inflation, and weakened institutions. In contrast, they credit the Ruto administration with economic stabilization, preventing default, and making progress in agriculture through subsidized fertilizer programs and improved coffee prices. The party also highlights expanded healthcare coverage through the Social Health Authority and strides in education and affordable housing.
On the contentious issue of rising fuel prices, UDA defends the government’s approach, arguing for long-term energy security through investments in local oil production, renewable energy, and electric mobility rather than unsustainable subsidies.
The letter accuses Uhuru of “operating from behind the scenes, mobilizing political hostility, fueling public anger, and quietly hoping the country fails.” This follows Uhuru’s renewed criticism at a Jubilee party forum where he urged leaders to address economic pressures facing ordinary Kenyans rather than engaging in divisive politics.
The public spat reveals deep fractures in Kenya’s political landscape as the 2027 elections approach. For those interested in understanding Kenya’s complex political dynamics, books like “It’s Our Turn to Eat” by Michela Wrong provide essential context on the country’s political culture.
Read the full story at Nairobi Wire: https://nairobiwire.com/2026/05/uda-open-letter-uhuru-kenyatta-toxic-obsession-ruto-kenya-kwanza.html