President Ruto Warns Against Political Hooliganism in Kenya

President William Ruto has spoken out against leaders engaging in politics of hooliganism, urging them to focus on policy-based campaigns and shun violence in the run-up to the 2027 General Election. Speaking at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Narok Town, Ruto emphasized the need for a peaceful and issue-based election. He challenged those seeking elective positions to compete on the basis of their policies and track records.

Ruto's comments come amid concerns over rising political tensions and violence in the country. The President warned against using violence to silence opponents, saying that such tactics have no place in Kenya's democracy. He also cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be exploited by politicians for selfish interests. According to Ruto, the 2027 election should be centred on ideas rather than violence and intimidation.

The President defended his administration's record, citing achievements in economic growth, employment, and exchange rate stabilization. He was responding to criticism from the opposition over a World Bank report on Kenya's economic performance. Ruto said the report recognizes the economy has grown, employment has increased, and the exchange rate has stabilised. He maintained that his administration had delivered on most of its promises to Kenyans.

Leaders who accompanied Ruto to the church service, including Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu and Kisii Governor Simba Arati, praised the Kenya Kwanza administration for its development record. They urged voters to support Ruto's re-election bid in the 2027 General Election. The President's remarks were seen as a call to action for leaders to focus on peaceful and issue-based campaigns.

Ruto's speech was also notable for his criticism of the opposition's interpretation of the World Bank report. He accused them of misinterpreting the report's findings on corruption and public procurement. The President emphasized that his administration is committed to transparency and accountability. He pointed out that the report highlights the country's progress in various sectors.

The event in Narok Town was part of Ruto's ongoing efforts to engage with citizens and promote his administration's agenda. The President's tour of Nairobi and other parts of the country has been seen as a build-up to his re-election bid. Ruto's message of peaceful and issue-based campaigns is expected to resonate with voters ahead of the 2027 election.

As the 2027 General Election approaches, Ruto's administration is likely to face increased scrutiny from the opposition and other stakeholders. The President's call for peaceful and policy-based campaigns is a timely reminder of the need for a responsible and issue-based election. Key to this will be the implementation of the recommendations of various reports, including the World Bank report, to promote economic growth and stability.

Key points

• President Ruto urges leaders to seek votes peacefully and focus on policy-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election.
• Ruto defends his administration's record, citing achievements in economic growth, employment, and exchange rate stabilization.
• The President criticizes the opposition's interpretation of the World Bank report on Kenya's economic performance.