Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria sparked controversy during President William Ruto’s tour in Nyeri County with a remark that “even if the United Opposition defeats us in 2027, we will steal, and we will not beg anyone.”
The statement came as Ruto visited the area to launch projects and rally support. Clips of Kuria speaking spread fast on social media, drawing sharp reactions from opposition supporters who saw it as an admission of potential election rigging. Kuria’s words added fuel to ongoing debates about electoral integrity in Kenya as 2027 polls approach.
The event took place in Nyeri, a key region in Mt Kenya that backed Ruto strongly in 2022. Kuria, speaking at a gathering, seemed to address fears of losing power.
“Even if the United Opposition defeats us in 2027, we will steal, and we will not beg anyone,” he said, as captured in videos shared online. The crowd responded with laughs and claps, but the clip soon went viral beyond the venue.
Kuria has a history of bold statements. He served as Trade Cabinet Secretary under Ruto until a cabinet shake-up in 2024. Known for direct talk on politics and the economy, he often defends the administration fiercely.
This remark came during Ruto’s push to consolidate Mt Kenya support amid criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua has accused Ruto of neglecting the region, leading to public spats.
Opposition voices called the words reckless. Azimio supporters said it undermines trust in elections. “This shows they plan to hold power at any cost,” political analyst Kimani Mbugua said.
Luos and other groups felt it targeted them as “fools” from earlier Ruto comments, though Kuria did not specify. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission has not commented yet, but similar past remarks drew warnings about hate speech.
Defenders saw it differently. Some said ‘kuria’ meant resilience, not literal theft. “He talks about not begging for alliances,” a supporter posted. Kuria has not clarified. His social media stayed quiet on the matter. Ruto’s tour continued without addressing the clip.
Nyeri residents had mixed views at the event. Some cheered Kuria’s energy. Others worried about division. The tour focused on projects like roads and water systems after President William Ruto launched the Nyota Program.
Ruto promised more development for the area. Crowds turned out strong, but the remark overshadowed parts of the day.
Kenya heads toward 2027 with alliances shifting. Ruto builds broad support after Gachagua’s impeachment. Opposition groups like United Opposition rally against him. Remarks like Kuria’s risk alienating voters. Analysts say they play into narratives of arrogance.
No formal complaints filed yet. But online backlash grows. Peace groups urge careful language to avoid tension.
Ruto’s team focuses on delivery. The Nyeri visit highlighted gains in agriculture and infrastructure. Locals hope actions speak louder than words.
The incident reminds me of past slips. Leaders’ offhand comments often haunt campaigns. Kuria remains a key ally for Ruto in Mt Kenya. Time will show if this affects that.
