Ruto Joins Gachagua's Viral 'Cousins' Phrase [VIDEO]

Ruto was speaking on Tuesday, June 10, when he met leaders from the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) at State House in Nairobi.

Marvin Chege Marvin Chege
Jun 10, 2025 - 17:55
0
Ruto Joins Gachagua's Viral 'Cousins' Phrase [VIDEO]
Collage of President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. /PCS.RIGATHI GACHAGUA

With the word 'cousin' having gone viral across the country thanks to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, President William Ruto has unexpectedly joined the bandwagon. Yes, Gachagua's former boss!

Ruto was speaking on Tuesday, June 10, when he met leaders from the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) at State House in Nairobi.

The Head of State stated that his goal is to bring all Kenyans together as one nation, adding that his mission includes uniting "cousins". This, however, made the crowd laugh in recognition of the popular reference.

“The way AIPCA has united and become one, and God blessed them now they are a big Church, is the same way as the President of this country, my desire and plans are to unite Kenya to become one,” the President stated.

“It is my responsibility as the leader of this nation to unite everyone, brothers, cousins, neighbours and enemies. All of them. I will unite them to be one nation.”

"Cousin," a playful variation of the word "cousin," was coined by Gachagua during a campaign tour on the Coast with other opposition leaders and quickly became a viral trend on social media platforms.

During his address, Gachagua described the new political coalition with Kalonzo Musyoka of the Wiper Party and Eugene Wamalwa of DAP-K as being akin to a family reunion.

“Makuzo mko hamko? Makuzo mko hamko? (Cousins, are you there or not?)” Gachagua asked a cheering crowd in Kasemeni, Kwale, during the rally.

The "Hi cousins" greeting quickly became a viral internet sensation, evolving into the slang term "Cuzo", which Kenyans widely adopted in memes, social media captions, and daily conversations.

It serves as a playful and affectionate term for friends, allies, or anyone, particularly when discussing unity or shared interests. Its popularity is evident in its use as a sign-off in videos and a caption for group photos.

In a related context of unity, President Ruto met with over 600 AIPCA leaders at State House. He stressed that all Kenyans must collaborate to build a united nation and resist any attempts to create divisions along ethnic lines.

“Let us stay focused on our shared development aspirations, which promise inclusive growth for all,” he urged.

The President also affirmed his government's commitment to working with leaders from every political party to tackle national challenges and speed up the country's socio-economic progress.

President William Ruto speaking to leaders from the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) at State House in Nairobi on June 10, 2025. /PCS

Tags: