Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has called on Kenyans to oppose President William Ruto through the electoral process.

Speaking at the Wiper Patriotic Front National Delegate Congress 2025 (NDC) held at Uhuru Park on October 10, Kalonzo criticised Ruto’s earlier directive to security forces during protests, framing it as an attack on constitutional rights.

“Ruto ordered you to be shot not on the head but on the legs because you dared to exercise your constitutional rights. I urge you, fellow Kenyans, especially the Gen Z and young people today, to shoot Ruto at the ballot,” Kalonzo said.

He urged those who have not registered to vote to do so, adding, “This is what will make Ruto respond.” Kalonzo emphasised national unity, stating, “When we rise together, no mountain is too high, when we rise together, no government can suppress us, and Kenya will stand again.”

He went on to acknowledge the leaders present during the NDC.

“Today, I acknowledge the presence of my brother, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua; my twin sister, Martha Karua; my younger brother, Eugene Wamalwa; my brother, Fred Matiang’i; and Speaker emeritus, one of our most distinguished Kenyan leaders, our brother Justin Muturi. I also recognise my friend, Professor Wajackoyah, and others who have joined us. I extend to you all my message of congratulations and appreciation.”

Criticism of Ruto’s orders

Kalonzo’s remarks followed his earlier statements from July 12, 2025, condemning Ruto’s orders to shoot looters in the legs during protests.

“A president should represent unity, hope, and prosperity. President Ruto’s inhumane command to shoot demonstrators in the legs should be absolutely condemned and rejected,” he said.

He described the directive as unlawful, adding, “Shooting a peaceful Kenyan under any condition is unlawful, inhumane, and totally unacceptable in any functioning democracy.”

Speaking at Twimyua Secondary School, Kalonzo accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of using security forces as instruments of control, warning of attempts to normalise the use of force against civilians.

“There is an unconstitutional backdoor attempt to return Kenya to a dictatorship from democracy,” he said.

Political tensions heightened

The original orders, issued by President Ruto on July 9, 2025, instructed officers to “shoot in the leg anyone caught looting during the protests” while ensuring they face court. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen echoed the directive in June, emphasizing security measures against those near police stations.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also weighed in, urging adherence to due process.

“We are all better served as a country when we stick to the principle that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, a determination that can only be made by a competent court of law. Let’s prioritise arrests and arraignment in courts over killing, maiming, or brutalising suspects,” Raila stated.

The controversy has intensified political debates, with opposition leaders mobilising support ahead of upcoming elections.