Despite widespread expectations that Ruto would address the impeachment, especially given the high-profile nature of the event, he chose to focus his speech on honoring Kenya’s historical heroes and heroines.
He paid tribute to figures such as Mekatilili wa Menza, a leader who resisted colonialism and fought for Kenya’s independence.
In his address, President Ruto highlighted the contributions of these national heroes, noting that they represented the entire nation and played a significant role in the fight for freedom.
He emphasized that their struggle was not only about uniting their communities but about standing up for the country as a whole.
Ruto’s speech centered around the heroes' dedication to devolution, something that he described as an early form of decentralized governance that is now practiced in Kenya.
Many Kenyans were surprised by Ruto’s decision to remain silent on the impeachment of his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, a matter that has drawn significant public attention.
The impeachment was brought forward by Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, who accused Gachagua of 11 offenses, including promoting tribal politics in his campaign for Mt. Kenya unity. The charges were serious enough to lead to Gachagua’s trial in the Senate.
Rigathi Gachagua, who was not present at the Mashujaa Day celebrations, remains hospitalized after suffering severe chest pains during the trial.
He addressed the public through his social media account, reaffirming his position as the deputy president despite the impeachment.
His absence, along with that of his wife, was notable, and no message from him was read during the event.
In a move that further raised eyebrows, President Ruto attended the celebration with Kithure Kindiki, his nominee for deputy president, despite a court ruling that prohibited the nomination.
The decision to bring Kindiki along fueled public debate, especially since Ruto did not mention anything about the political turmoil surrounding his deputy’s impeachment during the speech.
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