Speaking shortly after Uhuru’s emotional tribute to the late banker Frank Ireri, Owayo claimed that the former Head of State made a “strategic mistake” by revealing details about his health.
According to Owayo, such personal information could be exploited by political opponents or misinterpreted by the public.
“Uhuru has made the worst mistake of his life by telling his enemies the point of his weakness,” Owayo stated. He argued that the revelation could expose the former president to unnecessary speculation and political vulnerability.
The remarks came just days after Uhuru, during Ireri’s memorial service, hinted that he has been struggling with a serious illness.
His words, which appeared to confirm long-running rumors about his health, drew both sympathy and concern from Kenyans.
Uhuru had said that he was “fighting through challenges” and would continue to do so with faith and gratitude.
Owayo, however, maintained that Uhuru should have kept the matter private, noting that leaders’ personal disclosures often attract negative political attention.
“If anything happens to Uhuru, people will say he was already sick. It was unnecessary for him to expose that,” he added.
While some Kenyans agreed with Owayo’s perspective, others defended Uhuru, saying he showed honesty and humanity by acknowledging his struggle.
Many citizens and public figures have since expressed solidarity with the former president, wishing him strength and recovery.
The debate highlights Kenya’s ongoing tension between public transparency and privacy among national leaders.
As Uhuru continues his health battle, his revelation has opened a broader conversation about vulnerability, stigma, and the expectations placed on former heads of state.
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Politics