Why Ruto, Kalonzo skipped the presidential debate

The slated presidential debate which was held on 17 July 2017, was thrown into disarray and Kenyans were left disappointed after hurrying to their seating rooms to follow the much hyped-advertised debate. Surprisingly, only one running mate, Eliud Muthiora Kariara, out of eight turned up for the event.

However, the notably awaited candidates were the two protagonists, Jubilee’s William Ruto and NASA’s Kalonzo Musyoka. They gave the event a wide berth to the disappointment of the public.

So why did the two skip the event? Kenyan politicians thrive and drive on propaganda and rhetoric. Therefore a one-on-one engagement with the audience is a toll order for them and so were the candidates. The debate in this regard couldn’t provide the propagandist environment. To avoid the comprehensive and rigorous interrogation from the moderator and the audience, the candidates had no choice but skip the event.

The political class is allergic to accountability. The debate especially on Ruto’s side was going to be based on the accountability which he was not interested to indulge in.

‘Lack of consultation’ from the Debate Media Limited as claimed by the Jubilee and NASA, was a mere excuse and substantiated claim.

It was a big letdown especially from the two running mates. We hope come 24^th July 2017 the presidential candidates’ debate will not be the same.