President William Ruto’s ‘fools’ remark during a speech in Nyeri County has stirred tensions between Kikuyu and Luo communities. The comment came on January 12, 2026, at a Nyota project launch event. Ruto said he could not abandon votes from Mt Kenya to chase those from “other fools”.
Clips of the statement spread fast online, with many Luos seeing it as an insult linked to their support for Raila Odinga. Defenders say he targeted opposition figures like Rigathi Gachagua, not any ethnic group.
The event in Nyeri focused on local development. Ruto spoke to a crowd about ongoing projects like roads and water systems. He praised the region’s loyalty and stressed keeping support there.
The ‘fools’ line came while discussing political alliances. “I can’t leave the votes here to go look for votes from other fools,” he said, drawing laughs from some attendees. Phones captured the moment, and shares on X and Facebook hit thousands within hours.
Luos online reacted strongly. Many felt the words dismissed their community. Posts linked it to past ethnic divides during elections. One viral tweet said, “Ruto calls us fools for not voting for him.”
His allies called the remark divisive. In places like Kisumu, groups discussed it in markets and on radio shows.
Supporters of Ruto pushed back. They said the president aimed at specific politicians stirring trouble in Mt Kenya. Gachagua, the former deputy, has criticised Ruto lately. “It’s about opposition tricks, not tribes,” one defender posted.
This fits a pattern of careful words in politics. Ruto courts Mt Kenya votes hard after Gachagua’s exit. The region backed him in 2022 but shows splits now. Events like the Nyeri launch aim to rebuild ties.
State House stayed quiet. No press release explained the context. Ruto has made offhand comments before that sparked debate. In 2024, similar words about protesters drew backlash too.
Kikuyu and Luo relations have ups and downs. Elections often heighten feelings. Leaders call for calm to avoid repeats of 2007 clashes. Groups like the National Cohesion and Integration Commission watch such statements.
The speech also covered economy and youth jobs. Ruto promised more projects for Nyeri. Attendees focused on that more than the slip. But the clip’s spread shifted attention.
Social media plays a big role. Platforms amplify words fast. In Kenya, X trends move opinions. This one topped lists by evening. Memes mixed humour with anger.
For now, communities talk it out. Leaders urge respect across groups. The remark reminds us how words matter in diverse Kenya.
Nyeri event photos show large crowds. Ruto waved to supporters from the stage. The area remains key for his base.
Tensions like this fade sometimes. Other times they linger until cleared. Watch for updates from State House. Peace efforts continue. Groups plan talks to bridge divides.
