President Ruto Embraces Nicknames “Kasongo” and “Zakayo,” Linking Them to Leadership and Development
President William Ruto has, for the first time, publicly addressed the nickname “Kasongo,” which has recently been used to refer to him.
Speaking during a burial service in Bungoma County on Friday, January 3, the President expressed no objection to the nicknames Kenyans have coined for him.
“That ‘Kasongo’ name is fine. It’s a very good song that has been trending, so let’s keep it going,” Ruto remarked in Swahili.
The President also commented on the nickname “Zakayo” (Zacchaeus), saying it was fitting given his administration’s focus on enhancing tax collection to drive national development.
“The ‘Zakayo’ nickname is also not bad because collecting taxes for Kenya’s progress is a positive thing. Besides, Zacchaeus was visited by Jesus. If you’re not Zakayo, how will Jesus visit you?” he quipped, drawing laughter from attendees.
Ruto made the comments during the funeral of the late Mama Mary Nekesa Wetang’ula, the mother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
The President’s remarks follow a viral moment during the New Year’s Eve dinner at Kisii State Lodge, where he danced to the popular “Kasongo” song. Originally performed by Super Mazembe and written by Alley Katele, the track has gained a new lease on life in Kenya. Social media users have repurposed the classic with satirical lyrics to comment on political and social issues.
The original song narrates the story of a woman pleading for her estranged husband to return home. However, its recent reinterpretation has turned it into a cultural symbol linked to President Ruto’s leadership style and policies.
The President’s lighthearted approach to these nicknames has resonated with many, further cementing his connection to the public and his openness to embrace cultural and political commentary.
