Ruto Fires Back: “Tuju Needs Help, Not Political Exploitation”

William Ruto has weighed in on the unfolding controversy surrounding Raphael Tuju, shifting the focus from the alleged abduction claims to the people around him. Speaking in Siaya, the president criticized Tuju’s allies, accusing them of misleading him and turning a personal crisis into a political spectacle.

Ruto suggested that Tuju may have been influenced to stage the incident. “They have gone to mislead Tuju. They told him to hide in his bedroom and then claim he had been abducted,” he said. He insisted that the former Cabinet Secretary needs genuine support, not individuals seeking attention. “Tuju needs honest friends and advice… He doesn’t need scavengers who are trying to exploit the misfortune of a citizen,” Ruto added.

The president also took aim at opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka, accusing them of politicizing the situation. According to Ruto, their involvement is less about helping Tuju and more about gaining public sympathy. He further criticized the move to link former president Uhuru Kenyatta to the saga, calling it unnecessary and misleading.

Behind the drama lies a deeper issue. Tuju is facing legal and financial pressure linked to a long-running dispute with the East African Development Bank. The lender is pursuing assets tied to a loan taken years ago, including high-value property in Karen. Court rulings have already cleared the way for recovery, intensifying the situation.

Meanwhile, Tuju remains hospitalized, delaying court proceedings. He was expected to appear at the Kibera Law Courts but could not due to his condition. His legal team is pushing for protection from arrest as the case unfolds.

Ruto’s remarks add a new layer to an already complex story. What started as a missing person case has now turned into a mix of politics, law and personal struggle.