Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has reportedly embraced the nickname “Sponyo,” a name President William Ruto has used when referring to him during recent political exchanges.
The nickname has gained attention as Ruto and Uhuru continue to feature in political debates ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Ruto has recently stepped up his criticism of Uhuru, questioning the former president’s continued involvement in political affairs after leaving State House. His remarks have come during his ongoing political activities and public engagements across the country.
The latest development comes at a time when Uhuru is also undergoing a leadership transition within Jubilee Party following a recent High Court decision concerning the period retired presidents can remain in formal party leadership positions.
The court upheld a law limiting a retired president from holding office in a political party for more than six months after leaving the presidency. However, the ruling does not prevent a former president from remaining a party member or participating in political activities.
The political exchange between Ruto and Uhuru has attracted reactions from several leaders. People’s Party of Kenya leader Ndindi Nyoro recently urged Ruto to respect Uhuru and argued that the former president should not be treated as the current administration’s main political opponent.
The growing attention around the two former political allies comes as parties and politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections, with Uhuru’s continued political influence and Ruto’s administration remaining subjects of public debate.