The United Democratic Alliance Party (UDA) has thrown its weight behind President William Ruto's declaration against an alleged coup d'état, after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua hit back at the party leader over the coup claims.
In a statement, the party’s Head of Digital Communication, Antonellah Kakuko, reiterated that the only way President Ruto will leave office is through a loss at the 2027 polls.
“This is a democratic country, and citizens decide who will govern through their vote,” she said.
Adding, “The same Ruto who crushed the belief that it’s possible to win a presidential election fairly against all negative mobilisations. It is the same Ruto who will end the politics of anarchy and entitlement in this country.”
The communications lead has asserted that only elections will decide the fate of the under-siege Head of State, and not unconstitutional means.
Earlier on Wednesday, a vividly angry President Ruto declared, “enough is enough,” and that he would not allow “anarchy” in the country disguised as peaceful demonstrations.
This was in response to the deadly anti-government protests that have rocked the country for the better part of June and July.
"I want to tell those characters giving us lectures that they can change this administration using violence and unlawful means before 2027; let them try," he declared.
"This is a democratic nation, and Kenyans will choose the nation's leadership through the ballot. We cannot choose leadership through violence. That is not going to happen in this country."
Speaking hours after Ruto, the Democratic for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader denied an ouster plot against the president through a coup, insisting that the opposition is mobilising to vote him out. “There is no leader here planning a coup. So, relax and see us make you a one-term president in the elections in August 2027,” he said.
Ruto went on to direct police to shoot those who stole and burnt property during the demonstrations on the legs to tame the rising violence. “Anyone going to burn people’s property should be shot in the leg, be hospitalised and later be taken to court upon recovery. Do not kill them, but break their leg,” he said while touring the Police Housing Project in Kilimani, Nairobi County.
Since taking office in 2022, UDA has encountered various opposition groups. These include the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition, led by Orange Democratic Movement party head Raila Odinga, who has denied the 2022 election results and organised protests. There is also the 2024 Gen Z movement and a recent surge of protests, mainly driven by public dissatisfaction with the government.
Despite this, UDA remains resolute, asserting it is on track to fulfil its commitments to Kenyans and expects to win the 2027 elections for a second term.
Following the Saba Saba Day protests on Monday across 17 out of 47 counties, reports from the Kenya National Human Rights Commission indicate that 31 people have died and over 100 have been injured. Additionally, more than 500 individuals have been detained.
