Opposition sustains attacks on Ruto over governance

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa and other leaders durng a prayer service at Jesus Exaltation Church Bethsaida in Kajiado East Constituency, Kajiado County on September 28, 2025./RIGATHI GACHAGUA

Opposition leaders on Sunday, September 28 intensified criticism of President William Ruto, accusing him of mismanaging the economy, eroding Nairobi’s stature, and orchestrating land grabs.

Speaking during a service at Jesus Exaltation Church in Kajiado county, the leaders warned that the Kenya Kwanza government failures risk making the head of state a one-term president.

 DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa accused the presidency of making false promises to mama mboga, boda boda and other ordinary citizens.

“And not that we hate Ruto,” Wamalwa said. “It is because of the things that have happened in this country since he took over.

“What happened since the Azimio demos in 2023, Gen Z demos in 2024, recently during the anniversary and Saba Saba, have led to you suffering some of the highest casualties.”

He said many youths lost their lives in Ongata Rongai, Kitengela and Mlolongo.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka also faulted both Nairobi county and the national government for worsening insecurity, despite the city hosting the UN regional headquarters.

“There is every reason for this government to be sent home. While we don’t have personal problems with Ruto, you have a leader directing that youth be shot in the leg, and then you go to the UN to address a meeting on human rights.” Kalonzo said.

He further demanded the return of Kenyan forces from Haiti, saying any extension of their mandate should involve public participation. 

At least three Kenyan security officers have died and the death of a missing soldier confirmed last Thursday, while a number have suffered injuries.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in October 2024, accused top officials in government of land grabbing and pledged that an opposition presidential victory would mean the revocation of irregular title deeds.

The Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning has, however, defended state officials in the allegations, saying all actions taken have strictly adhered to legal procedures and court directives.

In a statement, the State Department for Lands and Physical Planning denied the claims.

The Ministry described reports linking its officers to the irregular registration of a title for 2,682 acres as inaccurate.

Gachagua also urged the middle class to shed political apathy and participate in elections.

 “The middle class of this country have for the longest time been bystanders in the electoral process. You can’t stay home and expect other Kenyans to bring meaningful change. You have to be part and parcel of this change,” he said.

 The government has repeatedly denied the claims made by the opposition leaders.