A controversial public statement made by Farouk Kibet, a powerful aide to President William Ruto has sparked public outrage. The remark, which was directed at nominated MP Sabina Chege, has sparked public outrage and renewed criticism over the conduct of high-ranking allies within Ruto’s inner circle.
As the country grapples with a host of economic, political, and social challenges, the latest controversy exposes a growing pattern of reckless rhetoric and unbecoming behaviour from those entrusted with public leadership, a development that is raising concern among citizens and political observers alike.
What Happened Between Sabina Chege And Farouk Kibet
The incident unfolded during a public function where Farouk Kibet, who is widely perceived as one of President Ruto’s most trusted political strategists, took to the podium and made a disparaging comment about Sabina Chege. While the exact quote has been widely circulated across social media platforms, the nature of the comment was seen as not only disrespectful but deeply misogynistic and inappropriate for a public forum.
Sabina Chege, a seasoned politician and former Murang’a Woman Representative, has maintained a visible public profile, particularly since joining the Kenya Kwanza coalition after the 2022 general elections. The tone and content of Farouk’s words quickly provoked widespread condemnation from across the political divide, including women’s rights groups, members of the opposition, and even within Kenya Kwanza itself.
This latest episode is not an isolated one. It reflects a broader trend in which President Ruto’s close allies and appointees are increasingly being accused of arrogance, impunity, and insensitivity in public engagements. From off-the-cuff remarks that border on hate speech to controversial policy positions and dismissive attitudes towards citizen grievances, many of the president’s lieutenants seem out of touch with the mood of the nation. Critics argue that the behavior of these individuals threatens to erode public trust in government and to undermine the credibility of President Ruto’s administration.
Farouk Kibet himself has long been viewed as a shadowy yet influential figure in Kenyan politics. Often described as the president’s political fixer, he is known to operate behind the scenes, pulling strings and shaping political narratives. His presence at rallies and high-level political events underscores his influence, yet he rarely addresses the media. That is why his decision to speak publicly — and in such a controversial manner — shocked many. Instead of advancing the Kenya Kwanza agenda or reinforcing the administration’s development priorities, his remark about Sabina Chege diverted attention from government policy and reignited tensions within the coalition.
The incident also exposes fault lines within the ruling alliance. Sabina Chege, who had been aligned with the Azimio coalition during the run-up to the 2022 elections, later shifted her allegiance to President Ruto. Her realignment has not been entirely accepted by all within Kenya Kwanza, and some insiders have continued to question her loyalty.
This Is Not An Isolated Incident
Moreover, this incident adds to a series of controversies involving senior government officials and political allies. Just recently, while serving as Deputy President for the Kenya Kwanza government, Rigathi Gachagua was criticised for inflammatory remarks targeting a section of the population, which many viewed as tribal and divisive. Gachagua’s “shareholding” metaphor, in which he suggested that government positions and resources should be distributed according to the votes garnered, was widely condemned as promoting ethnic exclusion and undermining national cohesion. His remarks were endorsed by President Ruto before a motion was moved in the National Assembly to impeach him.
Similarly, former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria made headlines multiple times for making coarse and sometimes outright vulgar statements in both political and policy settings. His frequent social media outbursts and dismissive tone towards critics drew rebuke from civil society and lawmakers alike.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, though seen as one of the more sober voices in the cabinet, has also come under pressure for the government’s heavy-handed response to protests and dissent. Mr Kindiki presided over the unwarranted deployment of force against anti-government demonstrations, some of which turned deadly. This has led to accusations of authoritarianism and a regression in democratic space. Despite assurances that the Kenya Kwanza administration would uphold human rights and civil liberties, the actions and rhetoric of senior figures seem to contradict that promise.
Economically, the Ruto government is also under siege. The 2024 Finance Bill, which was rejected in the face of mass protests, had been heavily championed by State House operatives and key parliamentary allies. Its controversial provisions, including new taxes on essential goods and digital services, were seen as punitive and disconnected from the everyday struggles of ordinary Kenyans.
Public opposition was widespread and fierce, culminating in youth-led protests that rocked Nairobi and other urban centres. Instead of engaging constructively with critics, many Ruto allies dismissed them as ignorant or misled. It is in this context that Farouk Kibet’s comment is being viewed as another tone-deaf outburst from a government increasingly seen as insulated from public sentiment.
President Ruto himself has attempted to present a more moderate tone, often calling for unity, dialogue, and economic transformation. However, his reluctance to censure his outspoken allies has raised questions about whether he condones their behaviour or is simply unable to rein them in. By failing to decisively address these controversies, the president risks being seen as complicit or indifferent. In politics, perception often matters more than intent, and the optics of unchecked verbal attacks and policy missteps are beginning to take a toll on his image.
Sabina Chege’s response to the episode has been measured but pointed. In a brief statement, she called for respect and dignity in political discourse and reminded her detractors that women in leadership deserve to be treated with honor. Her remarks have found resonance with many, especially as Kenya continues to push for gender inclusivity in politics. The backlash against Farouk Kibet has been amplified by women’s groups, professional associations, and human rights organisations, many of whom have called for a public apology and disciplinary action. As of now, no such steps appear to have been taken, and the silence from the State House is becoming increasingly conspicuous.
What the Farouk Kibet incident illustrates is that rhetoric matters, especially when it comes from those in proximity to power. At a time when the government is asking citizens to make sacrifices through higher taxes and reduced subsidies, it is vital for public officials to exercise restraint, humility, and accountability. The growing perception is that the president’s allies are more focused on political showmanship and internal wrangles than on the difficult task of national development. This disconnect is fuelling disillusionment and could have significant political ramifications as the 2027 election looms on the horizon.
What Next For Farouk Kibet And Sabina Chege
In the broader context, the controversy also raises questions about the state of political culture in Kenya. The tendency for senior leaders to resort to insults and personal attacks, often with no consequences, undermines democratic maturity and fosters a toxic political environment. It stifles debate, alienates citizens, and diverts attention from pressing national issues. If President Ruto is serious about building a legacy of transformative leadership, he must draw a clear line between political loyalty and responsible conduct. The country cannot afford a leadership that is both powerful and reckless.
As the outrage over Farouk Kibet’s statement continues to simmer, all eyes will be on how President Ruto navigates this moment. Will he censure his aide or continue with business as usual? Will his administration learn from this episode and institute stricter codes of conduct for its senior figures? Or will this be just another entry in a growing list of unaddressed controversies? For now, what is clear is that the Kenyan public is watching and remembering.
ALSO READ: Saba Saba: Old Wounds Reopened Amid Police Brutality, Repression
