'Ruto Must Go' movement spreads to clubs, national events

A wave of discontent is sweeping across the country with “Ruto Must Go” chants echoing in political and non-political rallies.

What started as rallying call during last year’s Gen Z protests has now taken on a life of its own.

In recent weeks, President William Ruto has faced direct heckling in multiple locations including Nairobi, Isiolo, Nakuru, and Embu counties.

The most recent occurred at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi during a football match between Kenya and Gabon, and during the Naivasha Safari Rally final day on Sunday.

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What makes this trend particularly significant is its spread beyond political gatherings. The Ruto Must Go slogan, once confined to opposition rallies, is now being heard in nightclubs, and even social events.

The spontaneous nature of the chants indicates growing frustration among Kenyans, particularly the youth, over the cost of living and what they say is failed governance.

According to Ishmael Nyaribo, a lawyer and political analyst, the chants are a reaction to the government’s handling of socio-economic issues.

“Food prices are high, healthcare is failing, and generally the cost of living is unbearable. These are real grievances,” Nyaribo said.

He noted that while protests and criticism of government officials are common in democracies, the direct heckling of a president denotes deeper dissatisfaction.

“It is one thing to criticise a leader, but when crowds openly heckle a president at a national event, it points to a governance crisis,” he said.

Despite this, Nyaribo cautioned against personal attacks on the President, arguing that political grievances should be addressed through structured dialogue rather than public humiliation.

Herman Manyora, a political analyst warns that the growing defiance could have serious implications for the Ruto administration.

“The danger for the President is that this anger is contagious. People who were undecided are now joining the movement against him,” he said.

Manyora noted that the government’s response to public discontent has been dismissive, which only fuels resentment.

“The President jokes about serious issues, like the chapati machine. It may seem small, but it shows he is out of touch with reality,” said Manyora.

Manyora believes that if the trend continues, it could have a significant impact on the 2027 elections.

“People are expressing their frustrations directly in his presence. That is more powerful than any opinion poll,” he said.

Both analysts agree that President Ruto needs to change his approach if he hopes to win back public trust.

Nyaribo stated that humility and responsiveness to public concerns are key. “The president must listen to the people. No one expects magic, but people need to see sincerity in leadership. Right now, they see arrogance,” said Nyaribo.

Manyora wants the President to stop excessive travel and public appearances and focus on delivering tangible solutions.

“He needs to stop going around the country making promises,” he said.

Manyora also criticised the communication strategy of the President, saying his casual attitude toward criticism worsens the situation.

“His response to criticism, including embracing nicknames like Zakayo and Kasongo, is not helping. It only makes people angrier,” he said.

With the one-year anniversary of the Gen Z protests approaching, the anti-Ruto chants appear to intensify.

Nyaribo says that, in the long run, the only real path to change lies in the ballot box.

“People will continue to express their anger and call for his resignation, but ultimately, Ruto is still in State House. The only way to remove him is through an election,” he said.

Nyaribo cautions that unless Kenyans translate their frustrations into active political participation, including voter registration and turnout, the chants will remain just that - chants.

Nyaribo argues that while protests are a powerful expression of dissatisfaction, they need to be followed up with strategic political action.

“If people truly want change, they must engage politically. That means registering as voters, mobilizing, and showing up on election day. Otherwise, they will wake up in 2027 with the same leadership they are complaining about now,” Nyaribo said.