President William Ruto has voiced his strong opposition to the upcoming anti-government demonstrations, urging for peaceful dialogue instead.

His statement comes in response to opposition leader Raila Odinga's Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition's call for supporters to take to the streets to protest against his administration.

In a public address on Friday, while inaugurating the Njabini-Naivasha Road in Nakuru County, Ruto emphasized his commitment to preventing violence and property damage, which have unfortunately characterized past protests.

He stressed that such incidents will no longer be tolerated under his administration.

Referring to recent protests where lives were lost and property was destroyed, Ruto questioned the need for continued demonstrations.

Read More

  1. Ruto reshuffles Cabinet, foreign missions, state agencies in sweeping realignment
  2. Kenya battles rising cyber threats with new security measures
  3. Kenya’s debt soars to Sh10.8 trillion as pressure on finances mounts

"Do we want to continue with these protests? They held protests last Friday, and seven people lost their lives. They held protests the other day, and eight people lost their lives. Did we witness the destruction of property in Nairobi and the manipulation of youth into violence? Is this what we want?" he expressed.

Ruto further highlighted Raila Odinga's history of challenging past governments, recalling the difficulties he posed to the late President Mwai Kibaki during the coalition government in 2008.

"He brought chaos and turmoil, constantly raising issues like toilets and carpets. President Kibaki had to work hard, but the progress did not meet the expectations," Ruto stated.

The president also blamed Raila for obstructing the realization of the Big 4 Agenda, an initiative proposed during former President Uhuru Kenyatta's administration.

"He came and disrupted our plans, causing a diversion with the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), which led us into debt. Currently, we are burdened with a nine-trillion-shilling debt," Ruto criticized.

Ruto urged Raila to move beyond the past, particularly since he lost the presidential elections last year.

"I want to tell Mr. Raila Odinga that the election concluded last year. You cannot seek leadership of our nation by capitalizing on the bloodshed, the suffering of citizens, and the destruction of Kenya's assets," Ruto remarked.

The head of state affirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution and warned Raila that his divisive tactics would not bring about change in Kenya.

"You cannot change Kenya by walking down that road. I want to assure you that I am watching you, and we will meet face to face It is impossible," Ruto declared.