Lies, Pathological Politics, and Presidential Settling: A Look at Kenya’s Leadership Dynamics

Unfolding the Bizarre “Cow Triplets” Incident

A strange and surreal incident recently captivated social media in Kenya. Posts emerged claiming that one of President William Ruto's cows had given birth to triplets—an occurrence described as a “sign of prosperity and better days ahead” for the nation. However, sharp-eyed Kenyans quickly noticed discrepancies. Different photos showed cows with varying features—one with brown spots, another with black. Soon after, the truth emerged: the photos were traced back to unrelated sources outside the country using modern digital tools.

This blunder triggered questions not just about the propaganda machinery but about the broader message it tried to convey. Why fabricate such an unnecessary story, and what does it signify about the current administration?

The Pathological Lying Phenomenon

Psychologists refer to individuals who tell unnecessary and habitual lies as pathological liars. Unlike lies told for self-preservation or to avoid embarrassment, these falsehoods serve no immediate benefit but rather aim to create a distorted or exaggerated image of reality. This brings us to a deeper question: could these incidents reflect attempts by the UDA government to mask insecurities or project confidence in its leadership?

Historical Parallels: President Moi’s Early Years

This episode mirrors an intriguing moment in Kenya’s political history. When Jomo Kenyatta, the first president of Kenya, passed away in 1978, his successor, Daniel arap Moi, was reluctant and deeply unsettled about assuming power. Fearful of the powerful Kiambu Mafia and unprepared for leadership, Moi required significant reassurance.

During his early presidency, efforts to boost his confidence became glaringly evident. Not only did Moi ride with close allies like Charles Njonjo and Nicholas Biwott in his official limousine (a breach of protocol), but Kenya Air Force jets would ceremonially escort his commercial flights back into Kenyan airspace—symbols aimed at reinforcing his presidential stature.

The parallels are striking. Could the current administration be grappling with similar anxieties? Observers note that, since assuming power, the Ruto-led government appears unprepared, overwhelmed, and devoid of a clear agenda. Instances of public posturing, deflecting blame, and fabricating narratives might be attempts to fill this void.

A Presidency Struggling to Settle In?

Like Moi in 1978, the UDA administration may still be struggling to adjust to the reality of its leadership. Stories like the “cow giving birth to triplets” suggest an effort to uplift morale and reassure both the public and those within government ranks. However, such poorly coordinated propaganda only raises more questions about the administration’s credibility and preparedness.

Food for Thought

Why resort to fabrications that are so easily debunked? Are those close to the presidency attempting to bolster its confidence amid mounting public skepticism? More importantly, if such narratives dominate the messaging, what does this reveal about the state of governance in Kenya today?

As history teaches us, political confidence cannot be built on falsehoods. Genuine leadership requires a firm grasp of reality, clear direction, and a commitment to truth. Without these, even the most elaborate narratives—like the bizarre tale of the cow triplets—will ultimately crumble under scrutiny.