Member of Parliament Farah Maalim, representing Daadab, has expressed his belief that the recent contentious statements made by Trade Cabinet Secretary (CS) Moses Kuria could have repercussions for William Ruto’s presidential aspirations. CS Kuria faced severe backlash on Monday when he launched an attack on the Nation Media Group (NMG), labeling it as “an opposition party” and publicly instructing government agencies to cease advertising with the media organization, warning of potential termination for non-compliance.
Maalim contends that CS Kuria’s remarks may tarnish the progress made by President Ruto during his term in office, potentially hindering his chances of securing re-election or at least impacting the public perception of his leadership. Speaking on Citizen TV’s Daybreak show on Tuesday, Maalim acknowledged that the impact of such remarks can vary, with some individuals not finding fault in them. He emphasized that political dynamics and public opinion play a significant role in shaping the consequences of such incidents.
Furthermore, Maalim asserted that CS Kuria has the right to express his opinions, particularly if President Ruto has not taken any disciplinary action against him. He emphasized that the CS’s appointment is solely within the jurisdiction of the current administration. If President Ruto is satisfied with his performance, he has the freedom to continue his current duties without hindrance, just as the media exercises its freedom to critique and scrutinize the government.
CS Kuria’s controversial remarks have sparked strong reactions from various groups, including the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) and the Kenya Editors’ Guild, who have vehemently condemned his statements. The Nation Media Group has demanded an apology and the retraction of the offensive remarks directed at its journalists. Additionally, the Azimio la Umoja coalition has called for CS Kuria’s resignation.
As the repercussions of CS Kuria’s remarks continue to reverberate, the political landscape remains dynamic, with potential implications for both Ruto’s presidential ambitions and the broader public perception of his administration. The outcome will depend on how Kenyans interpret and respond to these developments, shaping the political discourse leading up to the elections.