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‎A section of leaders have questioned retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, claiming his continued involvement in partisan politics is below the expectations of a statesman figure.

‎Speaking during a women and youth empowerment drive in Busia County, the leaders urged the former Head of State against what they described as ongoing political provocation.

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‎They said that sustained criticism of the current administration could draw a strong political response.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, who led the delegation in separate engagements in Budalang’i Constituency and Butula Constituency, asked Uhuru to follow the example of past leaders by stepping back from active politics and promoting national unity.

‎Addressing residents at Lunyofu Primary School, Wetang’ula acknowledged Uhuru’s legacy but noted that his recent public remarks risk widening divisions.

‎“I respect Uhuru as a former president and a leader I have worked with in government, but he should now serve as a beacon of peace, unity and a source of statesmanlike counsel,” Wetang’ula said.

‎He added that former presidents Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki upheld this tradition after leaving office.

‎The leaders, among them Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, MPs Japheth Nyakundi, Emmanuel Wangwe, Innocent Mugabe, Nabii Nabwera and Geoffrey Mulanya, President Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, and Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, asked Uhuru to refrain from active political engagements or risk direct political contestation.

‎Cheruiyot stated the former president’s actions could be seen as weakening the government through support for opposition activities. ‎He said that the leaders would respond firmly if the trend continues.

‎“We are ready to take you head-on unless you stop criticising President Ruto,” he said.

‎Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe said the law restricts retired presidents from active politics and questioned why Uhuru continues to engage in it.

‎“You are not special. Just like other retired presidents, follow the law and enjoy your retirement,” he said.

‎Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe called for respect for the current administration, warning that any attempts to derail it would be met with equal political force.

“Kenyans gave you ten years to serve. Allow President Ruto the same opportunity to deliver on his agenda,” he said.

‎Governor Otuoma, however, struck a more conciliatory tone, noting that former presidents are widely viewed as symbols of unity and continuity.

In response earlier, Uhuru dismissed critics calling on him to retire from politics, insisting that he has a constitutional right to remain active and defend his political party.

Speaking during the homecoming celebration of Jubilee Secretary General Moitalel Ole Kenta on Friday, Uhuru dismissed claims that he should stay silent, questioning why similar demands were not made of past leaders.

“When I speak one or two things, I am told I have retired and should go home. Why didn’t they tell Moi to retire and go home?” he posed.

Uhuru addressed the gathering via a phone call that was amplified for attendees, as he was not physically present at the event.

His remarks drew applause from supporters, who responded affirmatively as he defended his continued participation in political discourse.

The former President maintained that although he is not seeking any elective position, he remains firmly rooted in party politics as a member of the Jubilee Party.

“I am in active politics, but I am not looking for any seat. I have a right to defend my political party and stand with it. I am a member of Jubilee by blood,” he said.

The retired President also drew parallels with global political figures, citing former United States President Barack Obama as an example of retired leaders who continue to support their political parties.

“If you go to America, people like Obama are still defending their parties. Is it true or not true?” he posed to the crowd.

In a message to his critics, Uhuru questioned attempts to restrict his public engagements, including attending social functions and interacting with allies.

“Why do they keep telling me I can’t speak, I can’t go to a wedding, attend a funeral of a friend, or visit a friend?” he asked.

“Ati ninyamaze kama bubu na kuna macho naona na nina maskio naskia."

The leader framed his remarks within the broader context of democratic rights, arguing that every Kenyan has the freedom to participate in political processes and defend their beliefs.