No proof for claims that Kenyan president's son George Ruto's flashy matatu involved in major crash, image misleading
IN SHORT: A Facebook image seemingly showing the flashy Kenyan public service minibus named "Mood" after it overturned in a crash is misleading. The luxury matatu linked to president William Ruto's youngest son was not involved in such an accident.
An image circulating on Facebook appears to show a purple minibus labelled "MOOD" lying on its side, seemingly after a crash. The post suggests that the flashy matatu linked to president William Ruto's son George has been involved in a serious crash.
In Kenya, a matatu is a privately owned public service vehicle used for everyday transport, typically operating on fixed routes within towns and cities. Matatus range from 14-seater vans to larger buses and are well known for their colourful artwork, loud music, unique names and prominent role in Kenyan street culture.
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The vehicle in question is the matatu popularly known as "Mood", which has been widely associated with George Ruto, the youngest son of the president. Beyond his link to Kenya's first family, George has drawn attention as an entrepreneur involved in the country's vibrant matatu culture - a colourful and influential part of Kenya's public transport and street scene.
"Mood" was officially launched at a widely publicised event in Nairobi, Kenya's capital, on 18 July 2025. The unveiling drew large crowds of young spectators, turning the occasion into a street festival featuring DJs and live performances. Reports estimated the vehicle costs approximately KSh14 million (about US$108,000).
This matatu is notable for its high-end features, including bucket seats with USB ports and cup holders, air conditioning, solar panels, large TV screens, a professional DJ setup, and distinctive custom graffiti.
Against this backdrop, the alleged "Mood" crash was mainly met with casual reactions on social media, including mockery and jokes. This is primarily due to Kenya's strong meme culture, the matatu's association with the president's family and political polarisation.
The image was shared here and here. (Note: See more instances at the end of this report.)
But is the claim legitimate? We checked.
'Mood' didn't get into an accident
A closer examination of the image reveals clear inconsistencies. Notable differences emerge when the image is compared with verified photos of "Mood" - including those shared on Instagram by George's crew, popularly known as Raptor Fam.
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The overturned vehicle in the viral photo lacks the distinctive orange graffiti usually displayed at the front of "Mood" and does not feature the matatu's signature purple-tinted windscreen.
Raptor Fam also swiftly dismissed the claims that "Mood" had gotten into an accident. Raptor Fam posted photos showing the minibus operating normally, a situation that has been consistently documented, including as recently as 24 January 2026.
These inconsistencies have raised the possibility that the image may have been digitally altered or created using artificial intelligence tools.
This image has also been posted here, here, here, here and here.
