A woman has appealed for protection and intervention after her son allegedly faced bullying in school for being named after President William Ruto, raising concerns over growing political intolerance among school-going children.
The mother said she named her son William Ruto following the President’s 2022 election victory, but the decision has now resulted in emotional distress for the child due to ridicule from other pupils.
“I named my son William Ruto after the President won the elections, but that name has attracted bullying at school from other kids,” she said.
According to the mother, the situation has escalated to the point where the boy refuses to return to school. She claims other learners mock him using political chants such as “one term, Ruto must go,” leaving the child distressed and considering changing his name.
The woman is now calling for urgent intervention from authorities and school administrators, saying political hostility is increasingly spilling into learning institutions.
“We need protection for our children. This is becoming dangerous. Politics should not be used to traumatize minors,” she added.
Growing Debate on Political Influence in Schools
The incident has sparked wider debate on the influence of political discourse among school-going children, with concerns that political slogans and opinions are increasingly being echoed in learning environments.
Education stakeholders have in the past warned against politicising schools, urging parents and teachers to protect learners from political tensions that may lead to bullying or discrimination.
Related Case Reignites National Conversation
The matter also comes amid renewed public discussion following the case of Rachel Wandeto, a Kenyan woman who drew public attention after tattooing President Ruto’s image on her body.
Reports indicated that she later suffered a violent attack and died while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital, a case that sparked national debate on political expression, safety, and the risks of visible political symbolism.
The incident has since been referenced in broader conversations about how political identity can sometimes lead to unintended social consequences in Kenya.
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