President William Ruto has launched a blistering attack on those opposing the upcoming national livestock vaccination programme, slated to start next year.

Speaking at the 4th Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir County,

The President did not mince words, describing critics as unreasonable, mad, or even “stupid.”

The vaccination initiative aims to immunize 22 million cattle against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and peste des petits ruminants (PPR).

Ruto, clearly exasperated by the pushback, said he could not understand why anyone would object to a plan that benefits farmers and protects livestock.

“Anyone opposing vaccination to eliminate FMD and PPR is either possessed by an evil spirit or simply stupid,” he declared.

Adding that some Kenyans seem to oppose progress for the sake of it.

The opposition, led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, has raised concerns, calling the program a foreign agenda that could permanently alter the genetic structure of local breeds.

Kalonzo urged Kenyans to resist the plan, claiming it endangers both livestock and citizens.

“We reject these experiments outright and will fight them to the end,” Kalonzo stated.

Ruto’s sharp words are not new.

In recent weeks, he has adopted a confrontational tone against his critics.

At the Kilifi International Investment Conference, he labeled those alleging corruption in the National Equipment Service Programme as “foolish.”

Ruto’s blunt approach

“You have to be a fool to sign something wrong and then complain about it later. Kwani wewe ni mjinga kiasi gani?” he said, sparking mixed reactions.

This verbal sparring escalated last week when Ruto claimed that critics of government initiatives like the Adani deal, Affordable Housing Project, and livestock vaccinations were possessed by “evil spirits.”

“Kuna pepo chafu ya kupinga kila kitu—chanjo ya ng’ombe, afya, hata matoleo kanisani,” he quipped during a public address.

While some applaud Ruto’s candidness, others criticize his language as unpresidential.

Whether his blunt approach wins support or fuels division remains to be seen.