From Kasongo to Githinji: What President Ruto’s Nicknames Say About Kenya’s Politics

Nicknames in Kenyan politics often go beyond jokes — they reflect how citizens feel about their leaders. For President William Ruto, this pattern has become especially clear. 

Over the years, he has collected a series of nicknames that seem to mirror the public’s changing perception of his leadership.

The latest one, “Githinji,” has quickly gained popularity both online and offline. What started as a light-hearted tag has turned into a wider political conversation about how Kenyans view their president and the government’s handling of national issues.

The Rise of “Githinji”

The name “Githinji,” which originates from the Mount Kenya region, began trending during the funeral of the late Raila Odinga. 

Many Kenyans noticed it being used repeatedly on social media, even before understanding its meaning. Soon, it became one of the top topics of discussion across the country.

While the name itself might sound harmless, it carries serious undertones. Many Kenyans link it to the dark period of the Gen Z protests, during which young people were reportedly targeted, harassed, and even killed by police during demonstrations. 

For critics, the name represents a symbol of state brutality and the administration’s perceived insensitivity.

From Kasongo to Kaongo

Before “Githinji,” President Ruto had already been associated with other names that trended for months. The most famous one was “Kasongo.” 

It became widespread during the Gen Z protests of 2024 when young people began using it to describe the president in memes, songs, and online videos.

At one point, Ruto even appeared to embrace the nickname. He danced to a song inspired by it during an event at the Kisii State Lodge, turning a label of mockery into a moment of political theatre.

But as frustrations grew over unfulfilled promises, another name surfaced — “Kaongo,” derived from the Swahili word muongo (liar). It was used by critics to accuse the president of not keeping his campaign pledges.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has become one of Ruto’s fiercest critics since their fallout, has not shied away from using the latest nickname in his speeches. 

While addressing mourners in Murang’a, he boldly referred to the president as “Githinji,” accusing him of turning against his allies and betraying the public trust.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka also joined the wave, jokingly using the same name during a cultural event in Murang’a. 

His remarks drew laughter from the crowd, showing how deeply these nicknames have entered Kenya’s political vocabulary.

From “Kasongo” to “Kaongo” and now “Githinji,” each of President Ruto’s nicknames tells a story about the moment it emerged. 

They are not merely names — they are expressions of how Kenyans react to leadership, accountability, and shifting political realities.