Ruto is going nowhere, he is here to stay - Governor Abdullahi to critics

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei and other leaders at the Wajir Airport./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, in Wajir./STEPHEN ASTARIKO

Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi has come out strongly in defence of President William Ruto, pushing back against critics who have labelled the head of state a “one-term president.”

Speaking during the official opening of Sebuli Sub-County in Wajir South on Wednesday, Abdullahi dismissed growing calls for regime change, saying President Ruto has the numbers to secure a second term.

“We are telling those shouting ‘Ruto must go’ that he is going nowhere. We have done our calculations—added, subtracted—and he has the votes to come back,” said Abdullahi.

The event, which also marked Diif Education Day, was attended by several leaders, including Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, who was the chief guest.

Abdullahi, who is serving his final term and was elected on an ODM ticket, said he was speaking on behalf of fellow governors. Despite his party affiliation, he called for unity and urged Kenyans to give the president space to deliver on his mandate.

“You will sing ‘Ruto must go’ for two years, but he will come back and you will sing again for another five years until he completes his term. Then we can talk about who takes over in 2032,” he added.

President Ruto’s administration has come under heavy criticism in recent months over issues including economic hardship, governance concerns, and police conduct.

Tensions have been heightened by the recent death of blogger Albert Ojwang’ in police custody, which sparked nationwide protests and calls for accountability.

In a firm response to his critics on Tuesday, President Ruto dismissed the one-term narrative. He said leadership should not be measured by term limits, but by the impact and transformation a government delivers.

“I will not allow anybody to define me in terms of time, terms, or elections. This project is about impact and laying a foundation for future generations,” said Ruto.

Governor Abdullahi’s remarks are expected to stir further debate, especially among opposition leaders who have intensified their campaign against the current administration ahead of the 2027 election.