Ruto Dismisses Resignation Calls, Demands Concrete Solutions Amidst Protests

President William Ruto has dismissed growing calls for his resignation from opposition leaders, urging them instead to propose concrete solutions rather than inciting unrest. 

Amid escalating political tensions and nationwide anti-government demonstrations, the Head of State characterized chants of "Ruto must go" as meaningless unless accompanied by a lawful and constructive strategy.

"The Constitution already addresses term limits, allowing for one or two terms. So, what's with this obsession over terms?" the President questioned. 

He elaborated, "If you want me to leave, explain how. What does 'Ruto must go' mean? How do I go, given that we have a Constitution?"

President Ruto made these statements on Friday during the International MSMEs Day celebrations, following violent protests on Wednesday, June 25, which resulted in property damage, job losses, and numerous injuries. 

"If you want Ruto to go, find a better plan. Violence and anarchy won't solve our country's issues. Let's be honest," he stated.

Ruto challenged opposition leaders and critics to present policy alternatives that surpass his administration's development agenda, which he asserts is already tackling job creation and the high cost of living. 

"Develop a better plan than mine, one that creates more jobs, reduces the cost of living, and offers more opportunities for Kenya's youth. You can't replace a working plan you dislike with no plan at all."

Visibly frustrated by what he termed incitement based on "hate and violence," the Head of State reiterated that political change must be achieved through persuasion, not destruction. 

"Please! There are very few fools in Kenya. Persuade us. If you do, I can even focus on farming and help with food security. But don't burn the country for heaven's sake, we don't have another country."

Ruto also directly criticized religious and political leaders, accusing them of fueling the unrest. 

"I want to ask the religious and political leaders who are encouraging this movement towards violence and chaos and anarchy what is your plan?" He warned that Kenya risks instability if protests continue on their current path, emphasizing that the nation belongs to all Kenyans, not just him or his opponents. 

"If we go this route, we will not have a country. And the country does not belong to William Ruto it belongs to all of us. And if there is no country for William Ruto, there is no country for you."

The President's remarks followed the June 25 protests, which caused widespread destruction in Nairobi and other major towns. Ruto condemned the violence, noting that it had cost thousands their livelihoods.

 "Many people had jobs on June 24th and on 25th, their jobs went up in flames. And some are telling us that the 25th was successful. Really? With so many people hurt, many businesses destroyed… was it really successful?"

He subsequently directed security agencies to swiftly identify and prosecute those responsible for the June 25 chaos and violence, reaffirming the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting lives and livelihoods.