Ruto to Opposition: After 'Ruto must go', what next?

By Newsflash Team

President William Ruto has strongly criticized the June 25 anniversary demonstrations, describing them as “anarchy dressed in freedom colours.”

He affirmed that he would only vacate office through lawful and democratic procedures.

Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, speaking in Kitui, said the government was ready to sacrifice popularity to protect national security, which he said was gravely endangered by Wednesday’s unrest. The violence left 16 people dead, over 400 injured, and caused massive destruction of property — including damage to nine police stations and three court buildings.

President Ruto said protestors demanding his resignation were disregarding constitutional guidelines on presidential terms.

“If this is about term limits, the Constitution is clear — a president can serve a maximum of two terms. So why this obsession? The issue is already settled. Let’s focus on solving real problems, not chasing term limits. We need strategies and solid plans, not empty slogans,” he said.

He also addressed the trending “one-term” movement, which seeks to unseat him in 2027, saying it offers no alternative vision for the country.

“If it’s about ‘Ruto Must Go,’ explain how I should leave office. Let’s be truthful — what does that even mean? We have a Constitution, right? If you want me out, propose a better alternative. Convince Kenyans,” he said.

Ruto was speaking at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, where he led the celebration of World Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Day 2025.

‘Don’t burn the country to prove a point’

“If you can show that you have a more convincing plan for Kenya, and the voters support it, I will gladly step aside and go farm. But don’t destroy the country. Kenya is all we’ve got,” the President added.

He said violence and chaos would not pave the way to power. “Anarchy and bloodshed won’t get you into office. If you want me to leave, offer something better than I do.”

He dismissed the protests as deliberate attempts to wreck the economy and harm livelihoods through orchestrated violence. “That wasn’t a peaceful demonstration — it was calculated chaos, economic sabotage, and sheer destruction. Let’s not sugarcoat it.”

Ruto challenged political rivals to focus on proposing solid development plans instead of using demonstrations to paralyze the country. He urged Kenyans to reject groups and movements that risk dragging the nation into instability.

He also expressed sympathy for the victims of the protests, including those who lost loved ones and businesses, and tasked Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja with launching thorough and immediate investigations.

“I want the police to move fast. Those behind this violence and looting must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay. We must apply the law firmly and decisively,” Ruto said.

He cautioned leaders against endorsing or inciting acts of violence, warning that if allowed to continue, such behavior could engulf the entire country.

In Kitui, Deputy President Kindiki cautioned politicians against trivializing security issues.

“This is no joking matter. We won’t allow anyone to undermine Kenya’s peace and security. We’d rather lose votes than lose this country. What happened on Wednesday must never be repeated,” said Kindiki.

He called attacks on police stations and theft of weapons acts of terrorism, warning that masterminds, financiers, and executors of lawlessness would face severe consequences. “No one has the right to plot a coup. We’ll treat them the same way we treat al-Shabaab.”