ODM MP Junet Mohamed has ignited sharp political debate after publicly crediting President William Ruto with reviving Kenya’s economy while strongly criticizing the previous administration under former President Uhuru Kenyatta for leaving behind what he described as a crushing debt burden.
Junet claimed that the former regime, which included ODM’s controversial political cooperation through the handshake arrangement, failed to deliver genuine transformation and instead saddled the country with massive financial obligations.
“President William Ruto has revived Kenya’s economy. The previous regime, with which we had a fake handshake, left a debt of Ksh10 trillion,” Junet declared.
His remarks mark one of the most striking acknowledgments from a senior ODM figure regarding the broad-based government’s current economic agenda, while simultaneously distancing himself from aspects of the past political partnership with the Uhuru administration.
Junet’s comments suggest growing support among sections of ODM leadership for Ruto’s economic management, even as opposition politics continue to evolve ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Suna East legislator’s criticism of the “fake handshake” is particularly significant, given the historic political alliance between ODM leader Raila Odinga and Uhuru Kenyatta following the 2018 truce.
By characterizing that period as economically damaging, Junet appears to be reshaping narratives around ODM’s past strategic decisions.
Political analysts say the statement may also reflect broader attempts within sections of the political class to redefine accountability for Kenya’s debt challenges while positioning Ruto’s administration as a corrective force.
Junet’s endorsement of Ruto’s economic stewardship is expected to trigger both praise and backlash, especially from those who view the previous administration differently.
As Kenya’s political and economic landscape continues to shift, Junet’s bold declaration underscores how alliances, historical narratives, and fiscal accountability are increasingly becoming central battlegrounds in shaping voter perceptions ahead of the country’s next major electoral contest.