Makau Mutua’s recent acceptance of a position under President William Ruto has sparked widespread discussion in Kenya. Just two years ago, in January 2023, he strongly declared on X that he could not and would not recognize William Ruto as the President of Kenya. This public stand was seen by many as a matter of principle, especially coming from a respected legal scholar who has always been vocal about governance and human rights. However, in April 2025, Mutua accepted the appointment to serve as Ruto’s Senior Advisor on Constitutional Affairs. This move has left many Kenyans confused and disappointed, calling into question his consistency and credibility.
When Mutua made that bold statement in 2023, it was in the midst of a politically tense period following the disputed 2022 general elections. His stance was praised by those who viewed Ruto’s presidency with suspicion, and it aligned with the opposition’s narrative at the time. But things have since changed. President Ruto, despite ongoing criticisms, has continued to consolidate power and influence.
Renowned critical legal scholar Professor Makau Mutua delivering a lunch lecture during ‘Decolonising the university curriculum’
( Photo/File)
Mutua’s new role now involves giving constitutional advice to the very president he once refused to acknowledge. On April 30, 2025, Ruto announced the appointment via his official X account, and shortly afterward, Mutua responded with a thankful message, promising to serve diligently and with honor. This dramatic shift has not gone unnoticed.
The backlash online was swift. Many users brought back his 2023 post, comparing it with his current messages and calling him a hypocrite. Comments such as “so it was all about getting a job” and “you’ve finally gotten a chance to eat” dominated the discussion. It was clear that a big portion of the public saw his acceptance of the role as motivated more by personal gain than by principle. This view was reinforced by past comments Mutua made mocking the idea of ever working for Ruto, which have also been widely shared in the wake of his new job. To many Kenyans, especially those who once supported his strong opposition stance, this feels like a betrayal.
Makau Mutua’ contradicting tweets.
Despite the criticism, there are still those who believe Mutua’s decision could have a positive impact. Some argue that his experience and legal expertise could help steer constitutional reforms and uphold human rights from within the government. They say that instead of remaining outside and criticizing, perhaps it’s better to get involved and try to bring about change. Mutua himself has defended his decision, saying it is a chance to serve his country and make use of his knowledge at the highest level. He brushed off critics by asking them to let qualified people serve and to focus on results rather than politics.
Even so, the damage to his public image is already done. The issue is not just about whether he can do the job, but whether he can be trusted to stick to his principles.
Renowned Kenyan legal scholar Prof Makau Mutua. [Photo: Courtesy]
What is clear is that this appointment has exposed the deep contradictions that often appear in Kenyan politics. Leaders and public figures make bold declarations when out of power, only to change their tune when an opportunity arises. For Mutua, a man once celebrated for standing firm, this moment might mark the beginning of a more complicated legacy one that will always be remembered not just for what he said, but also for what he chose to do when power came calling.
