President Ruto on a lonely island shielded from unpalatable truth

President William Ruto interacts with sugarcane farmers during the launch of the issuance of bonuses at Mumias in Kakamega County on Jan 20, 2025. [PCS]

If you listen to popular market conversations in Emanyulia, you begin to understand why Chinua Achebe said African leaders live on lonely islands. You especially understand why President William Ruto's frantic efforts to court the Mulembe Nation's vote ahead of 2027 could be futile.

But if Emanyulia is far, just walk in Nairobi's informal spaces. Mingle with the underprivileged. Like those who walk to work in the morning, and back home in the evening. Listen in to their spirited and informed talk. You will confirm there are no more fools in Kenya, as Dr Ruto used to say in 2022. Their walk and talk is in rhyme and rhythm, in speed, spice and credence. They speak and walk with a sense of pained urgency. They yearn for change.