President Ruto responds to Maraga over ‘failed state’ remarks, defends government record

President William Ruto has criticised former Chief Justice David Maraga for suggesting that Kenya is on the verge of becoming a failed state, questioning how someone who served in public office for decades could now discredit the very nation he hopes to lead.

Speaking at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) during a bell-ringing event, Ruto dismissed Maraga’s remarks, insisting that Kenya remains a resilient and progressing nation, despite facing challenges.

“I listened to one gentleman who retired the other day after working for 50 years and now wants to be president,” Ruto said. “I hear him say Kenya is a failed state. I ask myself: has he been working in a failed state for 40 years?”

“You want us to trust you with the leadership of a country you don’t believe in, and to a people you don’t believe in,” the President added, openly questioning Maraga’s credibility and intentions.

Maraga made the comments during an interview on K24 on Monday, July 21, 2025, where he warned that Kenya was sliding towards failure due to worsening political and economic conditions.

“Look at what is happening in the country. We are getting into a failed state,” he said, criticising the government’s handling of anti-government protests and the erosion of constitutional freedoms.

“There is a political and economic crisis in the country that needs to be addressed squarely,” Maraga added.

In his remarks at the NSE, President Ruto defended his administration’s performance and urged critics to go beyond slogans like “Ruto Must Go”.

He acknowledged that criticism is part of democracy but challenged the opposition to provide credible alternatives.

“If you have a better plan for the economy, jobs, health or education, then say it. We cannot replace a plan you don’t like with nothing,” he said. “Sloganeering is not enough.”

Ruto noted that every leader’s time in office eventually comes to an end, including his own. However, he questioned the logic behind some of the calls for his removal, arguing that many lack a clear vision for what comes next.

“I listened to another group of Kenyans saying ‘Ruto must go’. And for sure, just like those who came before me, my time will come and I will go,” he said. “But respectfully, what are your reasons? I’m sure it’s not because of how my name is spelt.”

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