- President Ruto cited Sifuna's recent public appearances, which he says tarnish his leadership ambitions.
President William Ruto has gone after Edwin Sifuna's jugular, mocking his party, The Equitable Party (TEP), as 'The Empty Party'.
The Head of State scoffed at Sifuna's political prominence, terming him a weak competitor who lacks the wherewithal to stage a stiff contest in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking at a roadside rally in West Pokot on Wednesday, President Ruto cited Sifuna's recent public appearances, which he says tarnish his leadership ambitions.
"Niliona mwingine anaitwa Mr. Empty alienda kulaunch chama inaitwa The Empty Party. Akatoka hapo Moja kwa moja hadi kwa bar. Mara ya mwisho tulimwona na Koffi Olomide na meza imejaa ile pombe kali ya jina mbili mbili sijui Johnny Walker, sijui Jack Natembeya," he said.
"Mtu mwenyewe ni empty, chama ni empty. Alafu anaanza kuitisha wamama shilingi kumi kumi. Hiyo chama imekwama kwa bar. You are insulting our intelligence."
President Ruto reiterated his claims that the opposition is being sponsored by his predecessor, who he argues failed to implement progressive policies to develop the nation.
"Hawajui kwa nini wanapingana na mimi kwa sabau wako sponsored. Mwenye kuwatuma amekasirika na mimmi sababu alijaribu kunioppose akashindwa," he said.
Ruto maintained that the opposition lacks a better agenda aside from hurling insults at his leadership, daring them to use informed policies on how they will develop the nation.
He has remained bullish that his administration has transformed the nation, urging Kenyans to elect their next leader based on merit and not popularity.
"Our competitors are selling ethnicity, anger and jealousy to Kenyans. Things that will not change the destiny of our nation. The difference between us and them is like night and day," he said.
"We are unapologetic about our position. What we have as an alternative in Kenya is a useless, clueless and sponsored opposition. We are shocked with the kind of opposition we have."
President Ruto further asserted that he will not back down on advancing his development projects.
Sifuna, the Nairobi Senator, was appointed TEP leader on October 4, saying he will prioritize change and people-centred leadership, a policy he believes will be the antidote to Kenya's political ills.