During the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County on December 10, President William Ruto launched a scathing attack on leaders opposing his government's nationwide livestock vaccination programme.

The initiative aims to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep, intending to boost disease control and open up national and international markets for Kenyan livestock products.

Ruto labeled critics of the programme as “mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid,” arguing that opposition to the vaccination initiative stemmed from ignorance.

“Anybody opposing vaccination is simply mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid. The vaccination is necessary because we need disease-free livestock,” Ruto stated.

He stated that the vaccines would be locally produced and that this initiative would align Kenyan livestock products with export standards.

Despite Ruto's defense of the programme, his remarks ignited intense debate online.

Many criticized his harsh language, questioning both the necessity and transparency of the vaccination initiative.

One commentator, Gitau Warigi (@GitauWarigi), wrote: “That's the whole problem with Ruto's governance style. Kifua. Mpende msipende. Governance is about consensus. Not edicts. If I don't want to vaccinate my cows, it's my choice.”

Similarly, JACKSON TOCHI (@jacksontochi24) observed, “Before you declare everyone against you ‘stupid,’ maybe check if your own policies have a little more sense. Wisdom isn't just about speaking; it’s about listening too.”

Skepticism over the vaccines’ safety and efficacy also dominated discussions.

Emmanuel Motelin (@EmmanuelMotelin) noted historical injustices regarding medical supplies in Africa, writing: “During the last pandemic, western nations prioritized themselves, leaving Africa behind. Now we’re expected to embrace this without question? What’s the agenda?”

Others, like Kairu (@CheJonnie), raised practical concerns, asking, “What diseases? I vaccinate my livestock yearly against lampiskin, foot and mouth, and ECF. What are we not being told?”

Additionally, critics questioned the mandatory nature of the programme.

David Ngula (@david_ngula) called for a more inclusive approach: “Protecting livestock health is important, but it must be balanced with the rights, traditions, and economic realities of farmers.”

In contrast, some supported vaccination but criticized the rollout and communication strategy. @Maina_GenZ humorously suggested testing vaccines on politicians first: “Vaccination should begin with those in Parliament and the Senate. If they survive, the vaccine is SAFE; if not, Kenya will be SAFE.”

Ruto’s remarks also drew backlash for perceived arrogance, with Roie (@Roienkatha) remarking, “You can take a villager from the village, but you can't take the village from the villager.”

William Ruto at the 4th Pastoralist Leadership Summit

Ruto's comments come shortly after former VP Kalonzo criticized the proposal

Meanwhile, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka sharply criticized the programme, warning of dire consequences.

In a statement on November 15, Kalonzo alleged the vaccination was part of a sinister foreign agenda. He claimed the vaccines, rejected in countries like the U.S., could genetically alter livestock with devastating effects.

Kalonzo urged caution, emphasizing that livestock health must not come at the expense of safety and sovereignty.