He said being raised by a single mother or having a difficult childhood should not be used as a special qualification for winning elections.
Speaking during a public event, Uhuru reminded Kenyans that leadership is about service, honesty, and the ability to solve problems.
According to him, people should be elected because of their ideas and plans for the country, not because of their private struggles.
“Many people in Kenya were raised by single parents.
That is not something to use as a campaign tool,” Uhuru said.
He explained that while every personal story is important, it should not replace real leadership qualities like integrity and vision.
Uhuru himself was raised for many years by his mother, Mama Ngina Kenyatta, after the death of his father, Kenya’s first President Jomo Kenyatta.
He said he respects single mothers and understands the challenges they face, but insisted that being raised in such a family is not enough reason to lead a country or a county.
His remarks come at a time when some politicians are sharing their personal struggles to attract sympathy and support from voters.
Uhuru warned that this trend may mislead citizens, because sympathy alone does not guarantee good leadership.
Instead, he encouraged Kenyans to look at the policies, promises, and track record of candidates before voting.
“We must ask: can this leader improve schools, create jobs, reduce corruption, and unite the people? That is what matters,” he said.
The former president also urged young leaders to respect voters by presenting clear agendas.
He said elections should be about development and national growth, not emotional stories.
Uhuru’s statement has sparked debate among Kenyans.
Some agree with him, saying leaders must be judged by their actions and not their background.
Others argue that personal experiences shape character and can give leaders empathy for the struggles of ordinary citizens.
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