President William Ruto’s powerful aide Farouk Kibet has launched a scathing attack on PLP party leader Martha Karua and a group of Kenyan activists recently detained in Tanzania, accusing them of meddling in the internal affairs of Kenya’s neighbour and threatening diplomatic relations.
Speaking during a high-profile empowerment event at Etago grounds in South Mugirango, Kibet criticized the group’s political engagements across the border, branding them “unnecessary provocation” and a display of “bad manners.”
“Sisi tunaheshimu majirani zetu na hatutaki uhusiano wetu iharibike. Hawa watu wako na bad manners. Wafungwe,” Kibet declared, throwing his weight behind Tanzanian authorities.
(We respect our neighbours and don’t want our relations spoiled. These people have bad manners. Let them be punished.)
Kibet appeared to reference Karua and others’ involvement in what Tanzanian officials have labeled “unauthorized political activity,” following reports that the group participated in civic forums in Dar es Salaam critical of the Tanzanian government.
He emphasized that Kenyan politics should stay within Kenyan borders, urging the opposition to “sell their policies at home” instead of “importing tribalism.”
“Wameenda kushindana na Suluhu. Tunawaambia wakuje hapa Kenya wauze sera yao wasiuze ukabila.”
(They’ve gone to challenge President Suluhu. Let them come back here and sell their ideas—not tribalism.)
The event was hosted by National Assembly Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro and attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, signaling a united front from the Ruto administration against what they view as “diplomatic sabotage” from opposition quarters.
Kibet also used the platform to hit out at tribal politics, asserting that Kenya’s presidency is open to all tribes, not just the traditional power blocs.
“The presidency is not reserved for one tribe. Any Kenyan, regardless of tribe, can lead,” he stated.
Osoro, known for his sharp political rhetoric, backed Kibet, predicting a peaceful 2027 general election and downplaying opposition threats.
“There will be no violence in 2027. People already know who they will vote for,” said Osoro.
“Stop threatening us about 2027. This seat is not for one person. You couldn’t even convince four MPs to vote for you in Parliament.”
The remarks come amid growing political tension between Ruto’s administration and opposition figures who continue to voice concern over governance, regional diplomacy, and civic freedoms.
