The scene where President William Ruto is seen helping a “Mama mboga” (a small-scale vegetable vendor) fetch water became highly publicized during his campaign.
At the time, it was portrayed as a gesture of solidarity with ordinary Kenyans, emphasizing his “hustler” narrative and commitment to uplifting the common mwananchi (citizen).
Ruto’s team used such moments to position him as someone who understood the daily struggles of Kenyans and was ready to address them if elected.
However, many Kenyans now view these acts as mere political theatrics designed to attract votes.
Critics argue that after securing the presidency, Ruto has largely distanced himself from the very people he claimed to champion.
The struggles of those like “Mama mboga” have remained the same, with little tangible support reaching them.
This disconnect has led to a sense of betrayal among some Kenyans who feel that such scenes were choreographed for short-term gain rather than lasting change.
While the video may have resonated with voters at the time, the aftermath suggests that it was more of a campaign tactic than a genuine solution to the everyday issues facing ordinary citizens.
