At a time when Kenyans are witnessing frequent tours by political leaders across various regions, a resurfaced video of former First Lady Lucy Kibaki warning Kenyans against leaders chasing publicity has sparked conversations.
In the old video seen by Kenyans.co.ke, the late Lucy advised Kenyans to steer clear of such leaders, revealing that they barely perform their duties but instead move around making empty promises.
"We cannot tolerate the leaders who want to be seen on TV every day, parading for the press, saying 'we shall do this', 'you will see the government do this' — that is hollow speech," the late First Lady warned.
"Because from there, they don't go to do anything. There is nothing they are doing that is important for Kenyans," she said at the time.
The late Lucy Kibaki emphasized that leaders who make a difference focus on their work rather than seeking constant media attention or public recognition. They remain dedicated to their responsibilities without the need for publicity.
Further, the late First Lady also warned the media against granting these kinds of leaders the attention they crave.
"And I urge the media to disregard those leaders who constantly parade themselves before you, seeking attention on television and in newspapers for their so-called achievements," the late First Lady continued.
The old video elicited a heated debate online, with some Kenyans agreeing with the late First Lady, while others called on leaders to heed her advice.
"Love this. How bold. Politicians and public servants should not need to 'parade for the media.' Their work for the people would be self-advertising in itself. As in, if you must come out to tell the people what you have done for them, you ain't done it," one of the tweeps said.
The late Lucy Kibaki was the wife of Kenya's third president, the late Mwai Emilio Kibaki.
The video surfaced at a time when President William Ruto was on a week-long developmental tour in the Mount Kenya region.
The president has been in Meru, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Murang’a, and Embu counties, where he inspected projects such as the Mau Mau Roads, affordable housing initiatives, and fresh produce markets.
