Ruto Dismisses Those Peddling Fake News That Uhuru Wants To Extend His Term In Office

Deputy President William Ruto has dismissed politicians peddling false information that President Uhuru Kenyatta wants to extend his term in office. 

He said President Kenyatta was a firm believer of the principles of democracy and would not condone such a proposal.

The Deputy President said such misinformation was causing unnecessary confusion among Kenyans.

“I do not think President Kenyatta has told anyone that he wants his term extended. So, where are these people getting all this information?” He posed.

The Deputy President spoke at his Karen residence during a meeting with leaders from the Luo and Luhya communities.

Present were MPs Rigathi Gachagua (Mathira), Nixon Korir (Lang’ata), former ANC Secretary-General Eliud Owala, and former Senators Boni Khalwale (Kakamega) and Johnson Muthama (Machakos)

At the same time, Dr Ruto called for transparency and inclusivity in talks about Constitutional amendments.

He said leaders spearheading the exercise should not force or threaten Kenyans to support the proposals therein.

“As we discuss about the constitution, let us treat all Kenyans equally. Let us not have cards under the table.”

During a meeting with opinion leaders led by @EliudOwalo at Karen Residence, Nairobi County. pic.twitter.com/A6hsYtbzxd

— William Samoei Ruto, PhD (@WilliamsRuto) September 14, 2020

The Deputy President asked Kenyans to stand up against those using blackmail and intimidation to influence their political stand.

He said the country would no longer be held hostage by leaders who thrive on retrogressive politics.

Gachagua said they were ready to support the proposals in the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) but only if the needs of ordinary citizens are prioritised.

“We are not mad people to oppose the BBI proposals if it is about the unity and the empowerment of the people.”

His sentiments were echoed by Dr Khalwale who said “we will support BBI at the right time, that is when we have seen its content.” He said they would oppose the report if it is about extending the President’s term limits.

Muthama dismissed proposals to create five positions for five tribal leaders saying the move would disenfranchise small communities.

At the same time, Owalo announced that he had ditched the opposition and officially joined Dr Ruto’s camp saying the move was informed by the need for change in the country.

“I have with effect from today made a conscious and deliberate decision to stand with Kenyans on the right side of history by pursuing my political interests and aspirations within the hustlers’ political mantrix.”