• When all is said about how the incident was not a legitimate way to petition or demonstrate, there is a second side to the coin. It could have been an effort to send a message directly to the President.

Niccolo Machiavelli, the great Italian politician, aimed to reveal human nature and power structures for what they really are. He did this by assessing the real results of men’s actions and linking them to the resultant political perceptions. 

Why this lede?

Something rather shocking happened on Sunday, May 4, 2025, in the great Republic of Kenya. On the corridors of Kuria West, Migori County, President Ruto was almost hit by a flying shoe while addressing the public. This event ruffled feathers across the nation—some condemned it, some embraced it. 

President Ruto almost hit by a shoe while addressing citizens in Kuria West, Migori. (Photo/Courtesy: K24 Digital)

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) called out the perpetrators, citing that “such acts of disrespect against the Head of State are unacceptable and have no place in a democratic society governed by the rule of law.” 

Read More

  1. Reflect on WWII and Its Victims on May 8-9
  2. Nakuru Hosts Stakeholders to Prepare for Upcoming Trade Expo
  3. Make Presidential Advisory A Boon, not a Burden to The Taxpayer

When all is said about how the incident was not a legitimate way to petition or demonstrate, there is a second side to the coin. It could have been an effort to send a message directly to the President. It is wrong and disrespectful to throw an object at the Head of State, or indeed any individual, but to look at the scenario from one angle is wrong-er –excuse my grammar.

Just like Machiavelli opined, President Ruto should assess the happenings of May 4 and understand that it is a symptom of a tired people. It indicates that Kenyans’ trust and respect for their president dangles by a thin cord.

The country is currently grappling with an economic meltdown that has occasioned extreme costs of living. This has reduced the populace’s buying power, hence dehumanizing them. Controversies are also marring key sectors like education, health, and security, further depleting faith in the current government.

Politics is about perception. This illuminates the reality that no matter how much President Ruto delivers by the next elections, he risks erosion of people's respect. Addressing these issues will build trust and recognition, which may not necessarily guarantee re-election but safeguard his legacy as the fifth President.

Borrowing from political analyst Dr Michael Ndonye, “The President should be protected by the people and not from the people.” Food for thought.

Remember, many capable aspirants have shown interest in making Dr Ruto a one-term President. This is definitely one of his worst nightmares, and if he doesn’t heed Kenyans' cries, it will be a reality in 2027.