Through the years, President William Samoei Ruto has attracted several such labels, each reflecting a particular moment, promise, or public perception.
Among the names, Kasongo used to be one of the most popular nicknames, which has once had important weight as a political insult. It was used time and again in mocking or dismissing the supporters of the president and in drawing a thick line between those that voted for him and those who did not vote for him.
But that nickname seems to be losing its sting. According to commentary floating around online, including comments attributed to Wahome Thuku, Kasongo is outdated.
A new nickname has now emerged, Singapoor. The name is born from President Ruto’s recent and frequent mention of Singapore as an example Kenya should emulate in the near future.
At several public meetings, he has spoken about transforming Kenya into the “Singapore of Africa,” citing inspirations such as efficiency, economic growth, infrastructure development and governance reforms.
The term Singapoor is a mix of satire and commentary as it reflects not only the ambition of the president but also public skepticism.
To some, it underlines bold vision; to others, it speaks of a gap between rhetoric and reality. With each evolution of Kenyan politics, so too comes evolution in names that define its leaders, oftentimes saying much more about what the people think than any official pronouncements do.
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