Roots Party leader George Wajackoyah/ FILERoots Party leader George Wajackoyah has defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta against claims that he is financing political activities ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Wajackoyah questioned why Uhuru was being criticised over alleged political funding while those making the accusations had the option of taking legal action if they had evidence of wrongdoing.
“Those who are condemning Uhuru, are they not also financing?” Wajackoyah said during an interview on K24 on Monday.
He said Uhuru, who retired from the presidency in 2022, remained entitled to participate in political and public affairs as a Kenyan, provided he operated within the law.
“Uhuru is retired. Uhuru has not come out to say I'm running for president, but he also has a right to participate in politics in whichever way,” he said.
Wajackoyah was responding to claims that Uhuru has been supporting political activities involving opposition figures, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
He said allegations of political financing should be addressed through evidence and established legal processes rather than public condemnation.
“If Uhuru has committed mayhem or has broken the law, take him to court,” he said.
Wajackoyah also questioned the source of funds allegedly being used by politicians for political activities, citing instances where money and other forms of support are publicly distributed.
He challenged those criticising Uhuru to account for their own political financing before accusing others.
“Let us not just look at one side of the sword. Let's look at both sides,” he said.
His remarks come as political parties and leaders intensify preparations for the 2027 General Election, with alliances and political formations taking shape ahead of the polls.
Uhuru has remained active in political engagements since leaving office, including through his role in opposition and party-related activities, although he is constitutionally barred from seeking the presidency again after serving two terms.
Earlier on August 13, the Jubilee Party also fired back at President William Ruto after he renewed his criticism of retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing the former Head of State of sponsoring Opposition activities against his administration.
In a statement responding to Ruto's remarks, Jubilee Secretary General Moitalel Ole Kenta said the President should stop making Uhuru the focus of his political attacks and instead account for his administration's record after four years in office.
“Let it be said plainly: a government that has been in power for a full term cannot keep campaigning against a man who left office in 2022,” Ole Kenta said.
Jubilee said Uhuru, who retired from active presidential office in 2022, remained entitled to his views and political opinions as a Kenyan citizen.
Ole Kenta said the government had had sufficient time in office to establish its own record and should not continue to rely on grievances against its predecessor.
“If retired President Kenyatta’s presence is such a threat, it is only because his record still stands as a mirror this administration would rather not look into,” Jubilee said.
