Kenyans accuse Ruto of hyprocrisy after declaring Wednesday as Katiba Day
Even though the social media users welcomed the proclamation as a noble idea to celebrate constitutionalism, they termed it ironic
Netizens have criticised President William Ruto following his proclamation of the Katiba Day on Wednesday, saying he was among those who led the “No” campaign to the proposed 2010 constitution, which failed after 69 per cent of the voters said “Yes” to its adoption
Even though the social media users welcomed the proclamation as a noble idea to celebrate constitutionalism, they termed it ironic.
Here are some of the reactions by Kenyans after the proclamation.
“Fellow patriots at heart, President William Ruto declares August 27 as Katiba Day to mark the 15th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution and to promote civic engagement. This is a mockery. You’re stretching this joke too far. How do you celebrate a constitution that you opposed? How do you celebrate a constitution that you don’t believe in? How do you celebrate a constitution that you don’t respect?” lawyer Ndegwa Njiru posed.
“Hypocrisy of the highest order. You disrespect and bastardize the Constitution and claim to celebrate it. Live up to its tenets, that’s the celebration itself, not this PR,” another X user Jimmie Mwandawa stated.
“Same man who campaigned against this constitution now declaring a Katiba day? For what? Katiba needs only respect, implementation, and consultation,” one Sankara stated.
“Let’s not forget who led the campaign against the new constitution. Last week, he went overboard and created an unconstitutional gang to “fight corruption,” yet the new constitution is very clear that EACC investigates and recommends prosecution of corrupt people,” MD_Dimolish commented.
In his proclamation, Ruto said the day will be dedicated to renewing shared commitment to the ideals of the constitution by fostering national dialogue on constitutionalism, governance, and the rule of law.
He noted that the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution marked a new era of constitutionalism, citizen-centred governance, devolution and equitable development, protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
“It is befitting for the people of Kenya to commemorate this day as a reminder of our collective duty to obey, preserve, protect, and implement the Constitution. Now therefore, I do hereby proclaim that 27th August, 2025, and every 27th Day in August forever thereafter shall be observed as “Katiba Day” in commemoration of the promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya 2010,” the presidential proclamation stated in part.
“Katiba Day shall be observed throughout the territory of Kenya and all our diplomatic missions abroad as a day dedicated to renewing our shared commitment to the ideals of our Constitution by fostering national dialogue on constitutionalism, governance, and the rule of law,” he added.
However, Ruto noted that Katiba Day will remain a working day in the country. He directed all government institutions in the three arms of government and the two levels of governance, including schools, to organise, hold, and participate in solemn civic activities on August 27 to foster constitutional awareness and civic engagement.
