The Atmosphere at Kivaywa Primary School

On June 15, a lively gathering took place at Kivaywa Primary School, where community members came together for a church event featuring none other than the President of Kenya, William Ruto. This occasion was more than just a spiritual gathering; it served as a platform for the president to articulate his concerns regarding the future of Kenya and the plans—or lack thereof—of the opposition.

In his speech, President Ruto exhibited a noticeable intensity, discussing his apprehensions about what he views as a tribalistic agenda from his political adversaries. His assertion was clear: he has no intention of ceding administrative control to the opposition. “These other people have no plan; don’t waste time on them. We will not hand over power to those without a vision,” he declared passionately.

One couldn’t help but feel the weight of his words. Did he genuinely believe that the nation could move forward without the input of diverse voices? He continued, “Their only plan is that ‘Ruto must go.’ How will that help Kenyans and the country?” It’s a thought-provoking question, one that resonated in the hearts of many attendees.

Among those he criticized were notable figures such as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka of Wiper, Eugene Wamalwa of the DAP-K, and ex-Interior Chief Security Officer Fred Matiang’i. Ruto’s scathing remarks targeted their perceived inability to offer concrete solutions for the nation. “These people cannot do anything. They just want to tell stories,” he lamented, directly engaging the audience with a rhetorical challenge: “Will you accept mere rhetoric from people who have no plan?”

It’s moments like these that draw out a genuine emotional connection with constituents. The president urged the opposition to keep their divisive battles away from the Kenyan populace and asked them to confront him directly. “If they have a problem with me, they should come and face me. I will dismantle them,” he proclaimed. The fervency of his declaration left many wondering: Is confrontation what Kenya needs, or is collaboration the path forward?

He emphasized the importance of pressing issues that require urgent attention—creating jobs, improving education, and enhancing healthcare services. “This should be the priority for Kakamega, Western Kenya, and the nation,” he indicated, painting a vivid picture of a united frontneeded for true progress.

Ruto also took the opportunity to highlight the government’s commitment to tangible infrastructural improvements. “People of Kakamega and Western Kenya have long suffered from unbalanced budgets. This time, we have allocated Sh2 billion for roads from Kakamega Airstrip to Shinyalu and Chepsonoi,” he assured, making the promised benefits of his administration much more concrete. Could this allocation represent a new chapter in prioritizing infrastructure and development in Kenya?

Renewed Dissent: “Ruto Must Go” Chants Emerge

However, the atmosphere is far from static. Recent discontent among the Kenyan populace pertaining to President Ruto’s initial silence on the tragic death of social media personality and educator Albert Ojwang has sparked renewed protests. Under the banner of ‘Ruto must go,’ demonstrators are vocalizing their frustrations, calling for the president’s resignation.

It is not merely a matter of political spectacle; this moment reiterates a broader discontent among Nigerians that echoes through the streets. Ruto later responded to the outrage, stating, “I fully expect that the truth about what happened to Ojwang will be established in due course, and that justice will be served.” His words conveyed a sense of empathy, especially when he added, “Like most Kenyans, I received the news of Ojwang’s death in police custody while experiencing utter shock and deep dismay.”

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to Meshack Ojwang and his family for the cruel loss of their beloved son,” he added, attempting to navigate the turbulent waters of public sentiment with sincerity. Yet, despite his heartfelt response, the ‘Ruto must go’ sentiment had already taken root, growing louder amidst the outraged protests challenging his leadership.

The demand for Ruto’s resignation first took shape during the 2024 anti-bill protests that dramatically shook the foundations of Kenyan politics. Similar to a thunderstorm, this demand echoes across the landscape, making one wonder: What will it take for the government to address the concerns of its citizens?

In a time when the relationship between leaders and the populace bears great significance, questions abound. Will Ruto choose to engage in open dialogue, or will he continue to dismiss opposition as mere noise? Only time will tell how these dynamics will unfold in the complex tapestry of Kenyan politics.