Gen-Z protesters during the June 2024 uprising. Photo/DW
By Wanderi Kamau
Kenya’s security agencies have raised alarms over the growing “Ruto Must Go” movement, citing concerns over national stability.
On Thursday, 27 March, 225, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri and National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director-General Noordin Haji mphasized that leadership transitions must follow constitutional processes, signaling the government’s unease over the rising wave of dissent.
Newsflash delves on why have the top security organs may have issued warnings on these campaigns.
Fear of a revolution
The anti-Ruto chants, which began in 2023, have gained momentum, surfacing in churches, sports events, and the recent Safari Rally. Authorities fear this could escalate into a full-scale revolution, especially with the 2027 elections approaching.
“So when some people say they are tired with this government, a government they elected on their own and say ‘must go,’ that ‘must go’ must be done according to the Constitution,” Kahariri warned.
Read more: Military, NIS warn against ‘Ruto Must Go’ campaign
Political analyst Isaac Oloo believes the security forces’ reaction shows the administration is feeling the pressure. “These protests are no longer isolated. They are becoming an organized expression of public discontent, which the government fears could spiral out of control,” he said.
Security concerns at Presidential events
The government is increasingly worried that these chants could disrupt official functions, especially those attended by President William Ruto. With rising public discontent, security agencies are working to prevent embarrassing moments at state events.
“Security agencies must remain vigilant to ensure these chants do not transform into a security threat,” Haji stated.
Analyst Ruth Kimani suggests the government is nervous about the unpredictability of these protests. “What we are seeing is an attempt to contain dissent before it morphs into something bigger. If these protests continue at political rallies and state events, it could seriously undermine Ruto’s authority,” she explained.
Possible crackdown on dissent
There are concerns that the government could use this warning as a pretext to crack down on critics. A new law restricting anti-government protests, similar to the withdrawn anti-demos bill, may be introduced. The bill had been proposed by new Public Service Cabinet Secretary nominee Geoffrey Ruku last year.
Read more: Electoral fears emerge as Ruto men go hard on critics
“We could see legislation branding anti-Ruto activists as security threats,” notes political analyst Mark Wanjala. “This could allow the government to take drastic measures against those leading these protests.”
Social media mobilization worries government
The rise of digital activism, seen during the June/July 2024 Gen Z protests, has made it harder for authorities to control dissent. Protesters used social media to coordinate demonstrations, leading to the storming of Parliament.
This online mobilization is a growing concern for the government, which may introduce stricter digital regulations to curb its impact.
“The Gen Z protests showed the government that it is not dealing with traditional political opposition but a new generation that organizes quickly and effectively online,” said analyst David Mwakazi. “That is why they are trying to clamp down early.”
State House panic and countermeasures
Reports suggest State House is on high alert, with security organs activated to prevent further disruptions. Intelligence officers may be deployed to infiltrate and neutralize the movement.
“The government is not taking these chants lightly,” said a security source. “There is a real concern that if they grow, they could destabilize Ruto’s presidency.”
Read more: Is Raila starting to dump Ruto?
Political commentator James Mutua sees this as a sign of desperation. “If the government was confident in its leadership, it wouldn’t need to suppress public sentiment. The more they try to silence critics, the more they confirm the legitimacy of these grievances,” he argued.
Outlook
The “Ruto Must Go” campaign is no longer a fringe movement—it has become a nationwide expression of dissatisfaction. The government’s response, whether through repression or reform, will shape the country’s political future.
A crackdown could escalate tensions, while addressing public grievances could ease frustrations. The coming months will determine whether Kenya moves toward dialogue or deeper division.
