Muturi’s Political Roast: How Speaking Up Got Him Grilled, Seasoned, and Served

 

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi. PHOTO/Nation

Kenyan politics is a high-stakes kitchen, where loyalty is the main ingredient and speaking your mind can get you burned. For former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, his goose wasn’t just cooked—it was roasted, basted, and plated the moment he dared to speak out against the government’s handling of the Gen Z protests and the disturbing wave of abductions targeting young activists.

Muturi, a political heavyweight with decades of experience, must have known that going public about his son Leslie Muturi’s abduction was like poking a beehive with a short stick. But perhaps he believed his long-standing service in government—spanning from his days as National Assembly Speaker to his various ministerial roles—would shield him from political retribution. Well, as it turns out, even seasoned politicians can miscalculate.

Ruto’s “Incompetent” Verdict: The Kiss of Death

President William Ruto didn’t waste time sharpening the political axe. At an Iftar dinner with Muslim leaders, he casually dropped the word “incompetent” in reference to Muturi—an unmistakable sign that the former CS was as good as gone. In politics, being called incompetent by the president is like a doctor telling you to get your affairs in order. The very next day, Muturi was unceremoniously shown the door.

But was Muturi really incompetent?

 Let’s take a step back. This is the same man who successfully managed parliamentary affairs as Speaker for a decade, served as an MP for over ten years, and held various cabinet positions across different regimes. If that’s what incompetence looks like, then we might need a new dictionary.

The reality is, Muturi wasn’t sacked for underperformance—he was fired for opening his mouth at the wrong time. In Kenya, political loyalty isn’t just expected; it’s demanded. And when you step out of line, the system moves quickly to remind you who’s boss.

The Replacement Game: A Classic Mt. Kenya Distraction Tactic

Ruto, knowing that firing Muturi would ruffle feathers in Mt. Kenya, immediately replaced him with Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku—a man from Muturi’s backyard. This was a strategic move meant to appease the region. The logic? If you take out a leader, just replace him with someone from the same neighborhood and hope the people won’t notice.

But will Mt. Kenya voters buy into this classic political distraction? Probably not. The region has already been growing restless after witnessing the dramatic removal of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in what was, without a doubt, the fastest impeachment process in Kenyan history. And now, Muturi—another key political figure from the Mountain—has been axed.

Ruto’s Mt. Kenya Gamble: A Political Storm Brewing?

President Ruto is set to tour Mt. Kenya over the weekend, but this won’t be the hero’s welcome he once enjoyed. The region, which played a massive role in getting him elected, is now watching him with suspicion. Many are wondering: How many more Mt. Kenya leaders will be sacrificed before Ruto runs out of allies in the region?

Mt. Kenya voters are not known for blind loyalty. They supported Ruto when he seemed like the best bet, but their patience is wearing thin. The youth-led Gen Z movement has already shaken up the political landscape, and now, the president is walking into a region where he has just fired yet another of their own.

Will Ruto be able to smooth things over? Or will his visit turn into an uncomfortable reminder that the Mountain doesn’t take kindly to being sidelined?

One thing is certain—Muturi may be down, but in Kenyan politics, no one is ever truly out. Just ask the many politicians who have been "finished" only to rise again stronger than before. For now, all eyes are on Ruto, as he tries to navigate the storm he has stirred.

Grab your popcorn. The drama is far from over.

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About the Author: Felix Kinyua

Felix Kinyua is a seasoned freelance journalist with a Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration. With a keen eye for political dynamics and governance, he brings a unique blend of analytical depth and engaging storytelling to his work. His expertise spans strategic communications, media analysis, and policy interpretation, making his insights both compelling and thought-provoking. Passionate about truth and accountability, Felix uses his platform to dissect the intricate world of politics, giving readers an informed and often witty perspective on current affairs.