Why you should be aware of Ruto's 'false promises' this Jamhuri Day

United opposition leaders address a press conference in Nairobi, on December 11, 2025.  [Wilberforce Okwiri, Standard]

United Opposition leaders have urged Kenyans to be cautious of the claims President William Ruto is expected to make during the 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations regarding the performance of his administration over the past three years.

Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Leader Rigathi Gachagua, and Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) Leader Eugene Wamalwa said Ruto has mismanaged the country and has little to show for his time in office.

The three leaders argued that many Kenyans have nothing to celebrate due to harsh economic conditions, citing this as the reason for their campaign to ensure he is voted out in the next General Election.

“Kenyans are tired of William Ruto’s leadership, and that is why we are united in rallying citizens to send him home in 2027. We are keenly observing how the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) plans for the exercise,” said Kalonzo.

The former Vice President highlighted confusion in the education sector, with delayed capitation payments to schools and lecturers threatening to strike. He also criticised the Social Health Authority (SHA), suggesting these issues reflect Ruto’s disregard for citizens’ welfare.

Wamalwa criticised IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon for claiming that elections cannot be stolen in Kenya, despite reports of rigging and voter bribery in recent by-elections, particularly in Malava and Mbeere North constituencies.

He said petitions had been prepared to challenge the declaration of David Ndakwa as Malava MP and Leo Wamuthende as Mbeere North MP, citing irregularities that warranted nullification.

“The IEBC had the authority to cancel by-elections and bar candidates who breached the electoral code of ethics. Instead, Ethekon declared the exercise free and fair, which it was not,” said Wamalwa.

Gachagua accused Ruto of “auctioning our sovereignty” without public participation, describing it as a betrayal of Kenya’s founding fathers. He also condemned recent election-related violence allegedly led by Kenya Kwanza allies, warning that urgent action was needed.

The former Deputy President criticised projects launched with fanfare, such as the multi-billion shilling Rironi–Mau Summit Road, which he said currently show no activity.

“Kenyans should not fall for Ruto’s divide-and-rule tactics. Our problems are corruption, disregard for the rule of law, and extrajudicial killings, not inter-community disputes,” Gachagua said.

Democratic Party Leader Justin Muturi accused Ruto of running a corrupt enterprise, questioning where funds came from to give chiefs and teachers Sh10,000 each during State House visits.

“Do not take Ruto seriously when he condemns corruption. Any project he pushes is likely driven by personal interests,” said Muturi, warning citizens to remain vigilant.