President William Ruto has addressed the nicknames and backlash targeting his administration. Speaking during the funeral of Speaker Moses Wetang'ula’s mother, the head of state laughed off the monikers “Kasongo” and “Zakayo,” urging Kenyans to focus on unity and progress despite differing opinions.
“Iko watu kwa mtandao hawataki sana tuseme hii mambo kwa sababu wanataka kuendelea tu kusema hakuna kazi inaendelea Kenya, fitina, ooh Kasongo ooh Zakayo,” Ruto remarked with a chuckle. “Hio kasongo ni sawa sio mbaya tuendelee nayo, na ile ya Zakayo pia sio mbaya kwa sababu tunaokota ushuru ili kupeleka Kenya mbele. Na Kwanza, Zakayo ndio Mungu alimtembelea, sasa wewe hujakuwa Zakayo utatembelewa na Mungu namna gani? Ya muhimu is to work together.”
The Origins of Kasongo and Zakayo
“Kasongo,” a term borrowed from Super Orchestra Mazembe’s classic hit song, has gained traction among social media users as a nickname for the president. Meanwhile, “Zakayo” refers to the biblical tax collector, highlighting public dissatisfaction over rising taxes under Ruto’s leadership.
These monikers have become rallying points for critics who argue that the administration has failed to deliver on key promises. Issues such as corruption, controversial policies, and reports of enforced disappearances have further fueled public discontent. Social media platforms are awash with memes and caricatures mocking the president, illustrating the creativity and frustration of netizens.
Watch Ruto's speech below:
A Call for Unity Amidst Criticism
Despite the backlash, President Ruto emphasized the importance of working together to build a better Kenya. He defended his government’s tax policies as necessary steps toward national progress and drew parallels to the biblical narrative of Zakayo’s redemption.
“Hii mambo ya kulalamika haitatusaidia. Kenya ni yetu sote, na lazima tuungane ili tufanikishe ndoto zetu,” he stated.
Ruto’s remarks come at a time when his administration faces increasing scrutiny over governance and economic challenges. While his critics remain vocal, the president’s response highlights a determination to forge ahead with his vision for Kenya.
As the debate over “Kasongo” and “Zakayo” continues to dominate online conversations, President Ruto’s call for unity serves as a reminder of the need for collective effort in addressing Kenya’s challenges. Whether his message resonates with the masses remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—the digital age has made it impossible for leaders to ignore the voices of their critics.
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