Opposition Leader Julius Malema Criticizes Kenyan President Ruto’s Unfulfilled Promises and Alleged Contradictions

South African opposition leader Julius Malema has taken aim at Kenya’s President William Ruto, accusing him of failing to deliver on the promises made during his electoral campaign last year. Malema, addressing the audience at the launch of the Pan African Institute in Kenya on Thursday, specifically targeted Ruto’s commitment to eliminating the use of the US dollar in African trade.

Expressing skepticism about Ruto’s intentions, Malema stated, “I don’t know if President William Ruto means it because he said so many things, and I cannot locate him these days because the things he said during elections and the things he is doing now are two different things.”

Ruto’s administration has faced increasing criticism for a rising cost of living, despite the president’s electoral pledge to alleviate financial hardships for families. In defense, President Ruto has asserted that his economic policies are geared towards reducing public debt.

Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, also condemned Ruto’s warm reception of King Charles III and Queen Camilla during their recent visit to Kenya. Malema accused the King of showing “no remorse” for the colonial atrocities committed in Kenya during the British colonial era. While King Charles expressed regret for the abuses, no formal apology was issued.

Furthermore, Malema criticized Ruto for allegedly deviating from the ideals of African freedom fighters who resisted colonial oppression. He also condemned the Kenyan leader for supporting Israel in the Gaza conflict.