William Ruto celebrates Arsenal EPL win , ignores matatu owners’ fuel protest

William Ruto sparked widespread reactions online in the early hours of Wednesday, May 20, 2026, after sharing a lengthy congratulatory message celebrating Arsenal F.C. following the club’s English Premier League triumph after 22 years.

In his message, President Ruto praised Arsenal’s journey, highlighting what he described as the power of “hope, resilience, focus and relentless hard work.” However, the post quickly triggered criticism from some Kenyans who questioned the timing of the message amid ongoing domestic challenges.

Online criticism over timing

One X user, Nana Wami (@AonjelaPel), was among those who reacted strongly, arguing that the President had remained silent on pressing local issues while quickly commenting on international football.

“President has a message for Arsenal but not for the fuel crisis. Awuoro bana,” the user posted.

The comment rapidly gained traction online, with several users echoing similar frustrations over the government’s silence regarding the ongoing fuel and transport crisis affecting many Kenyans.

“Literally every crisis in this country, he is silent. Only vocal about things that don’t relate to us,” Wami later added.

Other users described the football post as insensitive given the economic difficulties many citizens are currently facing. Some critics also questioned whether the President was genuinely invested in football or simply reacting to a globally trending topic.

Fuel protests and national concerns

The backlash comes at a time when Kenya is experiencing disruptions linked to a nationwide public transport strike and demonstrations over rising fuel prices.

Some social media users referenced reports of deaths, injuries, and property destruction during the unrest, arguing that the government should prioritise addressing those issues publicly.

One user, Isaac BOBO Mwangi, criticised the President for failing to comment on “12 people killed and reports of missing children” linked to the two-day matatu protests.

Others also pointed to what they described as a lack of visible support for local talent and local issues compared to attention given to international sports.

Travel spending debate resurfaces

The online discussion also revived criticism over President Ruto’s international travel expenses. Some users claimed that the government’s spending on foreign trips contrasts sharply with the financial struggles currently affecting ordinary Kenyans.

“Fuel crisis hakuna statement, but Arsenal wamepata congratulations,” another user, Ochieng™ (@OchiengKe_), wrote.

As online debate continues, the reactions have once again highlighted growing public sensitivity around leadership priorities, communication, and the cost of living crisis facing many households across the country.