NAIROBI, Kenya – Renowned Kenyan hotelier Mohammed Hersi took to X with a powerful message for President William Ruto on Sunday, urging him to abandon the lavish excesses of his office and align with the austerity measures demanded by Kenyans.
In a lenghty post, Hersi contrasted the current administration’s extravagance with former President Mwai Kibaki’s understated approach.
He fondly recalled how Kibaki’s presence was barely noticeable during visits to Mombasa’s State House.
Hersi did not mince words about the wastefulness exemplified by President Ruto’s extensive motorcade, which includes not just necessary security but also a horde of hangers-on.
He likened this display to “vomiting on the bare feet” of Kenyans struggling to survive on less than a dollar a day.
Hersi pressed President Ruto to take immediate action, stating that the time for change is now.
“We must ensure every shilling is spent wisely and transparently,” Hersi emphasized.
He acknowledged the need for security but argued that “more is not necessarily better protection,” comparing Ruto’s entourage unfavorably to those of leaders in South Africa or even Rwanda, who manage with less despite facing higher security risks.
Highlighting the absurdity, Hersi pointed out that the UK Prime Minister’s modest entourage starkly contrasts with Kenya’s, despite Kenya frequently approaching the UK with a begging bowl.
He urged the President to recognize the wastefulness of using top-end, fuel-guzzling vehicles.
Hersi also noted that Kenya’s youth, the Gen Zs, crave genuine change.
By shedding the unnecessary opulence, he believes President Ruto would gain their respect and potentially uncover a surprising budget surplus.
“Get lean on how you run this country,” he advised, urging the President to set an example and demonstrate true fiscal responsibility.
