Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has dismissed calls for the removal of President William Ruto and his government.
Speaking at the funeral of retired veteran pilot Colonel James Nguyo Gitahi in Maanzoni, Machakos County, on Saturday, Odinga took aim at those opposing his collaboration with President Ruto in the broad-based government.
He responded sharply to critics of the ‘Ruto must go’ narrative, arguing that ousting President Ruto or the current administration would not resolve the pressing issues facing Kenyans.
Odinga pointed out that the country’s challenges, including the high cost of living, would only worsen if Ruto were removed. He warned that such actions would lead the nation into a perpetual political crisis.
“Kenyans need to survive until 2027. The cost of living is soaring, people are suffering due to high food prices, excessive taxes, and rising corruption. The 10-point agenda is not a betrayal of Kenyans,” Odinga stated.
He further questioned, “You say Ruto should leave, but then what happens? Gachagua leaves, and now you want Ruto to go, Kindiki stays, and then someone else comes in…”
Reflecting on the country’s struggle for democracy and multi-partyism, the ODM leader urged both politicians and citizens to refrain from political campaigns until 2027, when the next election would allow Kenyans to choose their leaders.
Odinga emphasized that the ongoing politicking was hindering the government’s ability to deliver on its development agenda.
“There is no need for this. 2027 will come, but Kenyans’ problems must be addressed now, not later. We cannot be in campaign mode for five years. The country cannot move forward because the noise is drowning out progress,” he said.
“Once the campaign period arrives, the men will step up. Didn’t you say I was too old to run? Maybe I should just stay home,” Odinga added.
These remarks come amid growing calls from opposition figures and government critics for President Ruto’s removal, fueled by the viral hashtag #RutoMustGo.