President William Ruto has hit out at the ongoing “Ruto Must Go” movement, claiming that some of those pushing for his resignation are part of what he called the wash wash cartel—a group known for fraudulent dealings and scams, with no genuine plan for the country’s future.
While speaking during the Talanta Bell-Ringing Ceremony at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, Ruto dismissed the growing calls for him to step down, saying that his critics are full of slogans but have no real alternatives or concrete proposals to solve Kenya’s problems.
“I keep hearing ‘Ruto must go,’ and that’s fine—my term will end like those who came before me. But the real question is, what is your plan when I go?” the President asked rhetorically.
He challenged those criticising his leadership to stop the chants and come forward with solutions. According to Ruto, disagreeing with his policies is okay—but simply shouting slogans without offering alternatives is irresponsible.
“If you don’t like my approach, that’s okay. But at least share your counterplan. Let’s see your vision,” he urged.
Ruto didn’t hold back as he ridiculed the protest leaders, comparing their movement to conmanship.
“The more I listen to what they’re saying, the more it sounds like pure sloganeering. They say, ‘Let Ruto go, and then we’ll figure things out later.’ That sounds like typical wash wash behavior,” he remarked, drawing laughter from the audience.
He added that if anyone truly believes they have a better strategy for Kenya’s economy, education, healthcare, or employment issues, they should be brave enough to present it to the public.
Without naming names, Ruto also took a veiled jab at former Chief Justice David Maraga, who recently announced plans to run for president in 2027 and claimed that Kenya is now a “failed state.”
“I heard someone who served Kenya for four decades now saying the country is a failed state. If you believe the country has failed, why do you want to lead it? How do you serve people you no longer believe in?” Ruto questioned.
The President called on Kenyans to think deeply and not be swayed by populist statements that lack substance. He acknowledged the criticism but suggested that maybe his detractors are the ones misleading the public.
“Critics might say I’m wrong, or even accuse me of lying or being delusional. But what if they are wrong? And they are. Just take a moment to reflect. When my time comes, I’ll peacefully leave office,” he concluded.
His remarks come at a time when political tensions are high across the country, fuelled by public frustration over the rising cost of living and controversial tax policies. These grievances have led to widespread street protests and online campaigns, particularly led by the youth.
Protesters have also raised concerns about serious national issues, including alleged cases of extrajudicial killings and lack of accountability in government, adding more pressure on the Ruto administration to act swiftly and decisively.
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