Digital strategist and Jubilee Deputy Organising Secretary Pauline Njoroge has called out President William Ruto, accusing him of resorting to insults and body-shaming instead of addressing key national issues raised by opposition leaders.
In a social media post, Pauline took issue with remarks she said were directed at Jubilee Deputy Party leader Fred Matiang’i, arguing that the President Ruto had stooped too low by resorting to personal attacks.
The Jubilee official faulted Ruto for allegedly mocking Matiang’i’s physique rather than responding to substantive questions he had raised about government spending.
Pauline described the President’s comments as very unfortunate, saying they undermined the dignity of the office. She pointed out that Matiang’i had remained respectful in his public engagements, even while posing critical questions on matters of national importance.
According to the popular blogger-turned-politician, the failure to respond directly to those concerns reflects poorly on leadership on the Head of State.
At the centre of the dispute is a question Matiang’i raised over the State House budget, which he noted had risen to KSh 17 billion.
Pauline echoed Matiang’i’s concerns, highlighting the contrast between the increased spending and reduced capitation to schools, as well as ongoing struggles in national referral hospitals facing broken equipment and limited support for patients. She insisted that these issues deserved clear answers rather than deflection.
Her remarks followed comments made by President Ruto during an event in Cheptais on Tuesday, March 17. In what appeared to be a response to recent trolls on his health by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Ruto suggested that some opposition leaders had pot bellies and should consider going to the gym.
In an apparent dig at Matiang’i, the President also remarked that certain leaders eat excessively and doze off during daytime meetings, comments that have now sparked fresh political backlash.