The president finally reacts to the viral and popular chants of “Ruto must go.” President Ruto stated that he remains unbothered about the slogan as long as the country heads on the right path.
During the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s aide’s burial, the head of state used this platform to address the issue. Ruto emphasized that he shall deliver for Kenyans. As he took a swipe at his critics, the president stated that he shall not be intimidated.
Additionally, Ruto said that he takes pride in the country’s progress, especially in education and other critical sectors. Furthermore, he stated that negative criticism has been part of leadership. He claimed that it will not be the first time a Kenyan leader faced a backlash from members of the public.
The head of state compared himself to his predecessors as he concluded that the slogan has been used against them. This included the second president, Daniel Moi, when he held the helm of power.
President Ruto allows Criticism
Ruto commented, “Criticism is normal. Now you are saying ‘Ruto Must Go.’ I have heard that several times. There was ‘Moi Must Go,’ and other subsequent leaders were also told they must go. ‘Must Go’ is just a normal song. There is no problem about it.”
“So there is no problem. They have been calling me Kasongo or Zakayo. I am not bothered because I am focused. We must get our education right, and we must handle devolution in the right way,” he added.
Further, Ruto mentioned that he will continue uniting the country even with the ongoing criticism. The president further urged Kenyans to unite for the sake of national progress. The ‘Ruto Must Go’ phrase has significantly become normal since June last year, when the youth led the anti-government protest.
Chants of ‘Ruto Must Go’ have been sung in various platforms, including clubs, churches, stadiums, and other public gatherings.