Political analyst Herman Manyora has raised the alarm that Kenya could face serious problems if political leaders don’t start exercising restraint as the country gears up for the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Wednesday, Manyora urged politicians to avoid personal attacks and heated rhetoric, warning that rising hostility could shake public confidence and make people lose faith in leadership.
“As elders, we must guide the nation. We have to tell the President and other leaders when they’re doing the wrong thing… we must call them to order,” Manyora said. He added that unchecked fights between politicians risk dragging them into unnecessary conflicts and can make them look small in the eyes of the public.
“There has to be a limit to how low you can go as leaders. At the end of the day, people are looking up to you for guidance and inspiration,” he added.
His warnings come as tensions rise between President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Lately, Gachagua has been openly criticizing the Ruto government, accusing it of mismanaging national affairs and ignoring some regions in terms of development.
Ruto has fired back, saying his former deputy’s comments are a direct challenge to government policies and national unity.
Observers say this shows cracks within the ruling coalition, with Gachagua positioning himself as a challenger while Ruto works to hold his leadership firm ahead of the elections. Both continue to make sharp comments at rallies and in the media, keeping the public debate alive — and often heated.
Manyora also talked about the importance of advisers for leaders.
He said leaders should surround themselves with people who are honest and brave enough to speak the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. “When you’re a leader, keep people around who can advise you — those who will tell you things nobody else is saying,” he said.
He warned that leaders without good counsel are prone to emotional reactions. “Anger is very dangerous. Anger in leadership… even in war… can destroy kingdoms,” he said. He added that political opponents often try to provoke leaders into reacting, and once they do, it can be used against them.
