President William Ruto has called on the Opposition to focus on presenting tangible development agendas to Kenyans rather than inciting lawlessness and exploiting the youth for political gain.
Speaking on Saturday during the 9th Edition of the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme in Simotwo, Elgeyo Marakwet County, Ruto warned that his administration will not tolerate leaders who incite violence, tribalism, and destruction of property. He emphasized that the government remains firm in ensuring law and order, and will pursue those behind recent unrest in various parts of the country.
“The Opposition must present their development agenda to Kenyans rather than stirring lawlessness, hate and tribalism. We will stand firm against those selfish leaders who exploit our youth to rescue their dwindling political careers,” Ruto stated in a post on X.
The President criticized recent protests that turned violent in towns such as Nyeri, Murang’a, Meru, Embu, and Kirinyaga, noting that the unrest was not spontaneous but carefully planned. He warned that perpetrators regardless of their social or political status will be held accountable.
“All those who want to cause chaos in Kenya, we will punish them,” Ruto said. “It is impossible that people go and destroy other people’s property, burn businesses, cause deaths, and then come back to us with petty politics, hatred, and tribalism. This must stop in Kenya.”
Ruto also appealed to political and religious leaders to refrain from inciting young people into violence, insisting that Kenya must uphold peace and unity. He called for national introspection, urging the country to focus on progress and reject divisive politics.
“We must step back as a nation and ask ourselves, is this really what we want to do?” the President posed.
With tensions high following nationwide demonstrations, Ruto’s message was clear: the rule of law must prevail, and leaders must prioritize the wellbeing of Kenyans over political ambitions.
