Speaking during a public rally in Mombasa, Ruto dismissed claims by opposition figures who have threatened to organise demonstrations, saying their only unifying agenda appears to be his removal from office.
Using blunt language, the President told the crowd that Kenyans were no longer naïve and could easily see through what he described as political theatrics.
“Msitubebe ufala bana! Hamuwezi kukwepa kutuambia ajenda yenu ni gani kwa sababu tunawajua,” Ruto said, loosely translating to: “Stop treating us like fools! You cannot avoid telling us what your agenda is because we know you.”
He added that opposition leaders were openly admitting that their so-called agenda was simply to remove him from power, rather than addressing issues affecting ordinary citizens.
Ruto argued that Kenya’s democracy cannot be reduced to perpetual protests and personal attacks, insisting that leadership must be anchored in ideas, policies, and service delivery.
He challenged opposition leaders to present concrete proposals on job creation, cost of living, healthcare, education, and economic growth instead of mobilising supporters for street action.
According to the President, his administration remains focused on implementing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, which prioritises empowering small-scale farmers, traders, youth, and informal sector workers.
He said the government is investing heavily in agriculture, affordable housing, universal health coverage, and access to credit for micro and small enterprises.
Ruto further accused the opposition of attempting to destabilise the country for political gain, warning that irresponsible mobilisation could undermine economic recovery and investor confidence.
He maintained that Kenya needs stability and constructive debate, not endless political confrontations.
“Their agenda is maandamano, maandamano, maandamano.
But protests do not put food on the table,” Ruto said, adding that leadership should be about solving problems, not amplifying anger.
The remarks come amid renewed political tension, with opposition leaders accusing the government of economic mismanagement and rising living costs.
They have hinted at organising nationwide demonstrations to pressure the government into policy changes.
However, President William Ruto insisted that his administration is open to dialogue but will not be blackmailed through protests.
He said democratic engagement should happen through institutions such as Parliament, public participation forums, and structured negotiations, not street politics.
