Tuju needs honest friends, not scavengers riding on his misfortune - Ruto

According to the President, his political rivals in the opposition front are hell-bent on using Tuju's adversity for gaining political mileage, misleading him even when he is facing a contentious legal battle.

"Tuju needs honest friends and advisers. They told him to go and hide in his bedroom and lie that he has been abducted. He does not need scavengers who are riding on his misfortune. They are seeking prominence from Tuju," said Ruto during a roadside rally in Migori.

"We want Tuju to be advised so that he can secure his property and move forward. He does not need those people."

President Ruto further scoffed at the political factions' attempt to unseat him during the 2027 General Election, saying that they lack the competence to govern Kenyans.

"We do not have an opposition in Kenya. Their future is hollow, empty and sterile. It is an alternative to nothing. These people cannot lead Kenya. And we are going to expose them," he said.

The former Cabinet Secretary was arrested on Monday after he allegedly staged his abduction on March 21, as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reported that he was hiding in his residence while sparking unnecessary unrest.

He is expected to be charged with giving false information to a person employed in public service, contrary to Section 129(a) of the Penal Code.

According to a charge sheet shared by his lawyers, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved the charges against the former minister, paving the way for his arraignment in court.

He has moved to the High Court seeking anticipatory bail, claiming he is under constant threat of arrest and harassment by police and prosecution agencies.

In an ex parte application, Tuju claims that he was followed by unmarked vehicles on March 21 and forced to abandon his car to seek refuge at a secure location. 

He later reported to Karen Police Station to record a statement, but alleges he was manhandled by officers, aggravating injuries sustained previously in an aeroplane and motor vehicle accident.

Tuju was transferred to Karen Hospital on Tuesday morning, where he remains under continuous police guard, despite not being formally charged.