Ndegwa Njiru: We are living JM Kariuki’s worst nightmare
By Joel Masibo, November 12, 2025Advocate Ndegwa Njiru has argued that Kenyans are living the worst economic nightmare of the late veteran politician, Josiah Mwangi Kariuki, under the regime of President William Ruto.
Until his death, JM Kariuki was a socialist politician during the administration of the late President Jomo Kenyatta. He held different government positions from Kenya’s independence in 1963 until his life was cut short in 1975 through assassination on March 2, 1975.
JM Kariuki’s legacy
JM Kariuki was vocal in his criticism of the late President Jomo Kenyatta’s governmental policies and their results, including high levels of corruption and widening inequalities in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
In his sentiments shortly after JM Kariuki’s third wife, Terry Wanjiru’s burial in Nakuru on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, Ndegwa Njiru has claimed that the country is still experiencing the same issues that JM was fighting against, referring to his famous words, “We do not want a Kenya of ten millionaires and ten million beggars,” while championing for equality.
”If Ruto’s regime is anything to go by, then we are truly living JM Kariuki’s worst nightmare: a country of ten millionaires and ten million beggars,” Njiru took to X on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Speaking during the burial of Terry Wanjiru, Wiper Patriotic Front Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also called for the nation to reflect on the legacy left behind by JM Kariuki.
Kalonzo learning from JM
Kalonzo said Josiah Mwangi Kariuki was not merely a politician but a champion of social justice whose words continue to challenge the country today.
”His famous words: “We do not want a Kenya of ten millionaires and ten million beggars”, were more than just a political statement; they were a call to conscience.
JM’s vision was rooted in fairness, dignity, and opportunity for every Kenyan, and he was categorical on the following: Economic Justice: A Kenya where prosperity would be shared by all citizens, not a few. Social Equity: A society where one’s background and ethnicity would not determine their destiny and access to opportunity.
Political Integrity: Leadership accountable to the people, not to personal interests. National Unity: A country where diversity would be our strength, not our weakness,” Kalonzo said.
As someone who has served in both government and opposition, Kalonzo revealed that he draws inspiration from JM, adding that his life reminds the country that political leadership is about service, not self-aggrandisement and self-congratulation.
”It’s about standing for principles even when it’s costly, and about building institutions that will serve future generations. Not attempting to sell off Kenya-built institutions like JKIA and Kenya Pipeline Company to yourself, family and partners,” the Wiper Party chief added.