Ruto accuses opposition of tribal politics, urges focus on service delivery

President William Ruto with Raila Odinga at a funeral service in Siaya April 12, 2025 [Emmanuel Wanson, Standard]

President Ruto accuses opposition leaders of dividing the country along tribal lines, through toxic politics at the expense of service delivery to Kenyans.

Addressing residents in Rongo, Homa Bay County on Monday, President Ruto tore into opposition leaders for what he described as an early return to toxic politics.

"They must not think they can sell us anger, tribalism, hatred, and divisions," Ruto declared, brushing off recent moves by opposition bigwigs to forge a united front against his re-election.

His remarks come just a day after a political meeting at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's home on May 4, where key figures including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiang'i, and Martha Karua-declared a pact to dethrone Ruto in 2027.

"You are uniting with one agenda-to drive hate. Elections are two years away. Take it easy. Let's work for the people. They are informed and will make informed decisions," Ruto said.

Ruto has anchored his presidency on what he calls a "broad-based government", one that cuts across tribal and political lines, saying his appointments reflect national diversity, not partisanship.

"Why are they bitter because I have included the opposition in government? All Kenyans pay taxes. Kenya belongs to all of us," he stated.

The President emphasized that the 2027 elections will be a contest of ideas-not identity.

President Ruto said his administration will not be derailed by early campaign fever or what he termed "recycled politics of resentment." Instead, he challenged the opposition to get serious and offer policy-based alternatives.