Abel Mutua compares Kenyan Constitution to toilet paper

Kenyan actor and filmmaker Abel Mutua ignited a discussion after likening the country’s Constitution to toilet paper, questioning whether it holds practical value for ordinary citizens. Mutua made these remarks while participating in The Kisiangani Podcast, where he likened Kenyans to products and likened the nation to a company as he discussed governance and citizen relations with its institutions.

He also touched upon previous statements suggesting that temporary suspension of the Constitution might be beneficial to address what he referred to as "goons." Mutua stated, "Ile time nilisema tunataka msee ako na a good head on their shoulders na affairs za hii country at heart aingie pale asuspend constitution adeal na wakora.

Watu walipiga noise deadly." He further asserted that ignorance might be considered "bliss," suggesting Kenyans may perceive the Constitution differently after gaining a deeper understanding of how the country operates. "You see, iko msee alisema ignorance is bliss, mimi namwamini. Huyo msee alisema ukweli. After nijue what I know now, I wish singejua…this thing (Kenya) is a company.

We are products…hii kitu unaita constitution, hiyo ni tissue." These comments elicited strong reactions online, with many asserting that the Freedom of Speech guaranteed by the Constitution allowed him to voice his opinions. The remarks follow increased public debate around the Constitution leading up to the 2027 General Election.

At the 2027 Katiba Day celebrations, President William Ruto emphasized the Constitution’s role in establishing offices and restraining power, describing it as a moment of "national accounting." Ruto urged Kenyans to evaluate whether the Constitution’s promises align with their daily lives, stating that the success of the Constitution should be measured by citizens’ quality of life rather than the frequency of its invocation. The Kenyan Constitution was promulgated on August 27, 2010.