Explore the fascinating story of Kenyan President William Ruto through the lens of the many nicknames he's acquired, both on the streets and social media. Beyond the name on his birth certificate, Ruto is known by around 50 other names. This episode delves into how these names reflect the evolving public perception of the man who once campaigned as a "hustler" and "chicken seller" from humble beginnings.
Discover the origins of names coined out of profound reverence and hope, such as "hustler," stemming from his narrative of rising from poverty without political lineage or wealth. Learn about "chicken seller," a nickname tied to his childhood, which was heavily used during his campaign to secure votes by positioning him as someone who overcame overwhelming odds.
But not all names are endearing. We'll unpack the reasons behind the shift to tags stamped out of sheer mockery and anger. Understand "Arab Mashamba" (son of farms), linked to concerns and accusations over vast landholdings and a court order to surrender land. Analyze "Zakayo," the reference to the greedy tax collector from the Bible, which emerged after his government introduced a wave of unpopular taxes that left many Kenyans feeling betrayed and angry. Even the tongue-in-cheek "Al Chapo," referencing a former drug lord, came after a promise about chapati-making machines.
These nicknames offer a unique window into the public mood in Kenya, highlighting the contrast between Ruto's carefully crafted image and the reality of his policies and the controversies he's faced. Join us as we decode what these many names tell us about the man, his journey, and why his nicknames are sometimes getting more public engagement than his actual policies.
