Kenyans on X (formerly Twitter) have come to the defence of CNN African Correspondent Larry Madowo following the attacks on X after he criticized President Ruto for double speaking.
Madowo, on X (formerly Twitter), questioned Ruto’s attendance at the Italy-Africa Summit despite his earlier opposition to African leaders participating in similar meetings.
In his tweet, Madowo shared a photo of Ruto with African Union (AU) officials, whom Ruto suggested should be representing Africa in global events.
This was followed by President Ruto’s speech where he swore not to attend the meeting erupted high emotions from the president’s close associates.
Emmanuel Talam, the Press Secretar of the Presidential Communication Service, criticized CNN journalist Larry Madowo for questioning President Ruto.
Talam urged Madowo to read Ruto’s summit speech before making unfounded criticisms, emphasizing the context where Ruto advocated for the AU to represent African leaders.
In response, Madowo defended his position, stating that Ruto was present alongside AU leaders in Italy, despite other East African presidents skipping the event.
The exchange continued, with Talam advising Madowo to take time to comprehend the President’s speech.
Madowo, asserting his journalistic expertise, argued that Talam lacked the authority to lecture him on journalism.
Opinions on social media varied, with some supporting Madowo’s critique, questioning Ruto’s stance on intercontinental summits.
Others argued that Ruto’s attendance was strategic for economic partnerships, especially regarding energy security.
President Ruto’s invitation to speak on energy security, as the Chair of the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC), included discussions with international financial institutions like the World Bank and the IMF.
He also planned talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella to enhance bilateral cooperation and expedite collaborative projects in environmental conservation, climate change resilience, water, education, health, energy, and culture.
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