Ruto’s Alleged Sh6.2M Jacket Sparks Uproar Amid Kenya’s Economic Crisis

Kenya is gripped by controversy after President William Ruto was photographed inspecting a wheat farm while wearing what many believe to be a designer jacket worth Sh6.2 million, prompting outrage from a nation already reeling from economic hardship.

The jacket—reportedly a luxury lambskin and crocodile blouson from Italian fashion house Stefano Ricci—was flagged by political commentator Aoko Otieno, who shared images of the president on social media alongside screenshots of a similar item listed for $48,350 (approx. Sh6.2 million) on the brand’s official website.

Though the presidency has not confirmed the jacket’s origin or cost, the timing and context of the images have provoked intense public backlash.

Photos Fuel Public Anger Amid Economic Struggles

The president’s designer outfit became symbolic of what many see as the widening gap between the country’s leadership and its citizens—especially after the June 2025 protests that left dozens dead. The demonstrations were driven by frustrations over high taxes, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.

Social media exploded with criticism. On X (formerly Twitter), @Ja_tello1 voiced what many felt:

“Yaani ameva mita sita?? Na sina hata breakfast kumamaye,”
—a raw and biting expression of economic despair.

Echoing this sentiment, @SenatorAbdi05 reposted the same phrase, highlighting just how many Kenyans feel abandoned by those in power.

Critics Link Outfit to Systemic Corruption

Beyond the outrage over the jacket itself, critics used the moment to call out broader governance issues.

“More than 100 Billion looted. You gettin’ where Kenyans’ taxpayers money goin’ to?” tweeted @thee_alfa_house.

@rgc99f2byt accused the government of enriching allies while public institutions crumble, while @Jbm_Evan stated bluntly:

“Totally out of touch with the suffering of Kenyans.”

@LensuMotors asked what many wondered:

“Yaani president haezi hurumia watu anaongoza. Hio pesa si atujengee shule?”
—lamenting the lack of investment in basic infrastructure like schools.

Mockery of State Narratives and the Rise of Satire

Skepticism was also directed at the narrative surrounding Ruto’s farm. The government recently claimed that proceeds from the wheat project would help fund a Sh1.2 billion church.

@DexxieDexxy dismissed the claim as propaganda:

“They want to lie to us that the 1.2B church will be built by the proceeds of this farm. Wajinga wameisha Kenya.”

Others drew comparisons to former President Uhuru Kenyatta, suggesting that even during his wealth-laden photo-ops at Brookside or Northlands, he avoided such overt displays of luxury.

“Ata Uhunye hakua anapiga picha pale Brookside. EQ onge,” wrote @MumoMwas, referring to emotional intelligence in leadership.

Demand for Accountability Grows

Some Kenyans called for official scrutiny.

“Is this from his salary or something else? #Investigate,” demanded @PoliticalWatcherKE.

@HopefulKenyan summed up the prevailing sentiment:

“This is why we march—leaders must feel our pain, not flaunt wealth.”

Symbol of Discontent

Whether or not the jacket costs Sh6.2 million, the perception alone has become a powerful symbol of public discontent. For many, it represents a deeper frustration with perceived extravagance and a lack of empathy from leadership amid economic suffering.

As the phrase “Yaani ameva mita sita??” trends across platforms, it has evolved into a slogan for citizens demanding humility, accountability, and urgent reforms.