Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri to steer clear of political matters following his recent warning over the growing ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants.
Speaking on Saturday at the consecration of Reverend Harrison Kinyua in Naivasha, Gachagua cautioned Kahariri against mixing politics with military affairs, emphasizing that the armed forces should remain neutral.
He firmly advised the military chief to “go back to the barracks” and focus on their core duty of safeguarding the country.
“I want to remind CDF Kahariri that the military is a highly respected institution in this nation because it has always maintained professionalism since independence. Kenyans trust the military because of its discipline and integrity,” Gachagua stated.
He went on to urge Kahariri not to involve himself in the political affairs of President William Ruto’s administration.
“The military’s primary duty is to protect Kenya from external threats, not to interfere in political matters. Please do not allow yourself to be drawn into politics,” Gachagua added.
CDF Kahariri’s Controversial Remarks on ‘Ruto Must Go’ Chants
General Kahariri sparked nationwide debate after commenting on the ongoing ‘Ruto Must Go’ slogans, which have been gaining momentum since the Gen Z-led demonstrations in June 2024.
On Thursday, March 27, while speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University in Nairobi, Kahariri issued a stern warning regarding the chants.
He stressed that any calls for leadership change must follow legal and constitutional procedures to avoid plunging the country into chaos.
“We cannot afford to have lawlessness in the country. While every citizen has the right to express their views, it must be done within legal limits. We must not misuse our freedoms to the point of destabilizing the nation,” Kahariri stated.
He further reminded Kenyans that the military upholds the Constitution and remains committed to protecting the legally elected government.
“As the military, our duty is to defend the Constitution and the government that was lawfully elected by the people.
If you decide that you are no longer satisfied with the leadership you elected, and you start chanting ‘Must Go, Must Go’, it must be done within the provisions of the Constitution,” Kahariri warned.
Gachagua Responds, Defends ‘Ruto Must Go’ Chants
In response, Gachagua dismissed Kahariri’s concerns, clarifying that the ongoing ‘Ruto Must Go’ slogans are not unconstitutional.
Instead, he described them as a way for Kenyans to prepare for the 2027 elections, where they plan to vote Ruto out through democratic means.
“The ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants are not illegal. They are a clear message from Kenyans about what they intend to do in 2027. These slogans are simply a rehearsal for Ruto’s removal through the ballot,” Gachagua asserted.
He further emphasized that the growing dissatisfaction among Kenyans is a warning sign for Ruto’s government, urging the administration to pay attention to the grievances of the people instead of silencing dissent.
Growing Anti-Ruto Sentiments Across Kenya
Over the past few months, Kenyans have actively expressed their frustrations with President Ruto’s leadership, both online and in public gatherings.
The ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants have been echoed in political rallies, social events, and even official government functions attended by the president.
Authorities have interpreted these chants as an attempt to push for Ruto’s removal from power, further fueling tensions between the government and its critics.
However, those opposing Ruto insist they are simply exercising their constitutional right to free speech and political expression.
As the 2027 elections approach, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the increasing pressure from the public, and whether the military will remain neutral in the ongoing political discourse.
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