Senator Methu: I had no intent to embarrass Ruto, I was doing my job

“Fear is not good. You can respect a leader, but you should not fear them,” he said.

Nyandarua Senator John Methu has defended his recent remarks directed at President William Ruto, saying he had no intention of embarrassing the Head of State.

The Senator spoke after his statement, “I respect you but I do not fear you,” sparked debate across the country. He made the remarks during the burial ceremony of Ol Kalou MP David Njuguna Kiaraho.

“I Was Just Doing My Duty”

In an interview with Citizen TV, Methu said he was simply carrying out his constitutional role as a leader. He explained that his comments were not meant to disrespect the President but to address issues affecting his people.

According to the Senator, respect for leadership is important, but fear should not be part of leadership.

“Fear is not good. You can respect a leader, but you should not fear them,” he said.

Methu added that if given another chance, he would repeat the same words because he believes leaders must speak openly about issues that matter.

Delayed development projects in his area

The Senator said he used the opportunity to raise concerns about delayed development projects in his area. He pointed out a road project linking Njambini and Gatura, which he claimed has not been completed despite earlier promises.

He explained that part of his role as a Senator is to oversee government projects and ensure promises made to citizens are fulfilled.

“My work is not to praise the President but to check if what was promised is being done,” he stated.

Methu insisted that his main responsibility is to serve the people who elected him. He said leaders must always put citizens first and speak up when things are not going right.

He also encouraged Kenyans, especially the youth, to be bold and speak out without fear.

His remarks have attracted criticism from some leaders allied to the President, who described his words as disrespectful. Others, however, believe he was exercising his democratic right to speak on behalf of his constituents.