Ruto: ‘Critics of Vaccination May Lack Sense’
During the Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County on December 10, President William Ruto fiercely criticized leaders opposing his government’s national livestock vaccination program. The initiative aims to vaccinate 22 million cattle and 50 million goats and sheep, with the goal of improving disease control and enhancing market access for Kenyan livestock products both domestically and internationally.
Ruto dismissed critics of the program as “mad, unreasonable, and possibly stupid,” suggesting that their opposition was rooted in ignorance. He emphasized that the vaccines would be produced locally, ensuring that Kenyan livestock products meet export standards.
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However, Ruto’s comments sparked intense debate online. Many took issue with his harsh language and questioned the program’s necessity and transparency. Some criticized his authoritarian approach to governance, with Gitau Warigi (@GitauWarigi) commenting, “Governance is about consensus, not edicts. If I don’t want to vaccinate my cows, it’s my choice.” Others, like JACKSON TOCHI (@jacksontochi24), argued that wisdom involves listening as much as speaking.
Skepticism about the vaccines’ safety and efficacy also surfaced, with some recalling Africa’s history of being overlooked during past global health crises. Emmanuel Motelin (@EmmanuelMotelin) raised concerns, asking, “What’s the agenda?” and questioning why Africa should trust the vaccines without scrutiny.
Critics also questioned the mandatory nature of the vaccination program. David Ngula (@david_ngula) called for a more balanced approach that considers farmers’ rights, traditions, and economic realities. Some supporters of vaccination suggested that politicians should be the first to test the vaccines, with @Maina_GenZ humorously proposing, “If they survive, the vaccine is SAFE.”
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Ruto’s remarks also faced backlash for their perceived arrogance, with Roie (@Roienkatha) commenting, “You can take a villager from the village, but you can’t take the village from the villager.”
Meanwhile, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka criticized the vaccination plan, claiming it was part
