Ruto dismisses unity of Opposition

President William Ruto has dismissed Martha Karua’s People’s Liberation Party (PLP) and the declared unity among Opposition leaders aimed at dislodging him in 2027.

Speaking during a tour of Taita Taveta, President Ruto called out his political opponents, questioning their motives and the direction of their new party.

“I see some people holding meetings, saying they are forming a party. But for four hours, all they talk about is William Ruto,” the president remarked.
“Now I ask them, is that party they are forming mine? Is it called William Ruto?”

He accused his rivals of lacking a clear vision, arguing that their focus on him instead of on policies demonstrated political opportunism.

“Your manifesto is William Ruto, your plans revolve around William Ruto, and your vision is William Ruto. Let me tell Kenyans today, I have not sent these people to talk about me. That party they are discussing is not mine; these are con men,” he declared.

On Thursday, Karua rebranded her National Rainbow Coalition (Narc) Kenya party and renamed it PLP at a function attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader, Eugene Wamalwa and former Cabinet Secretary, Fred Matiang’i represented by Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka.

The team said they are ready to support any of them picked to lead the coalition to face off President Ruto in 2027.

Single candidate

They said they will plan, re-strategise and eventually develop a clear cut formula to pick a single candidate to face off Ruto in the next elections, even as they renewed their resolve to keep their purpose of unity stronger.
During the relaunch, Karua said Ruto, his entire regime and what he represents must not only be put to a stop but should also give way to allow the rule of law to reign.

“It does not have to be 2027 for him to go, it can be sooner. We will soon meet and give a program of activities. For liberation of our country, we need unity of purpose and we call upon party leaders to show commitment,” said Karua, who was proposed as the convener of the group.

The leaders did not miss the moment to dismiss Ruto and his governance structure, which they termed as selfish that has grinded the country to a halt.

Karua said they must thwart Ruto’s gradual graduation to being the dictator.

But yesterday, President Ruto urged them to come up with their own identity, policies, and clear strategies rather than relying on his name.
“They should find their own party name, not William Ruto, and create their own agenda, plans, and vision. Otherwise, they will fail and that will their problem,” he stated.

He further dismissed tribal-based politics, urging leaders to focus on real solutions for Kenyans noting that the price of tribalism dropped significantly.

“The price of tribal politics has dropped significantly, so don’t try selling tribalism. Instead, present policies that benefit the people and tell us your alternative plan,” he said.

Strong stance

Drawing a contrast between his administration and the opposition, Ruto pointed to tangible development under his leadership.

“We are building roads; what is your plan? We are advancing affordable housing; what is your alternative? We are rolling out Universal Health Coverage; what is yours?” he posed.

The president also emphasised his government’s efforts in youth employment, citing opportunities in affordable housing, digital jobs, labor exports, and manufacturing.

“We have structured job opportunities for our youth, but what is your plan? Or is it your only strategy to organize demonstrations? Since when did protests become a paying job?” he questioned.

This is not the first time Ruto has taken a strong stance against opposition politics he considers unproductive. Throughout his tenure, he has promoted an agenda focused on economic transformation, advocating for investment in infrastructure, housing, and employment generation.

His administration has consistently called for issue-based politics, urging leaders to shift away from personality-driven

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