Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has hit back at President William Ruto over his recent remarks that the Opposition does not have a plan to lead Kenya.
In a statement released on Wednesday, July 23, Kalonzo responded to Ruto who had accused the Opposition of latching on the “Ruto Must Go’ slogan to drive him out of office but not presenting a solid development plan for the country.
On Wednesday, Ruto had claimed that individuals pushing for his removal from office are part of what he termed the "wash wash" gang - a reference to fraudsters and con artists with no real plan for the country.
Speaking during the Talanta Bell-Ringing ceremony at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Ruto said those criticising his administration are only good at slogans but have failed to offer tangible solutions to the country’s challenges.
"I hear some people say 'Ruto must go', and that is fine - my time will come like those who came before me. But what is your plan when I go?" the President posed.
He challenged his critics to present alternative ideas if they genuinely believe the country is on the wrong path. “It is okay if you do not agree with my policies, but please provide us with your counterplan,” Ruto stated.
However, Kalonzo, while revealing he is currently out of the country, asserted that he will present his plan to Kenyans to review, and not Ruto.
Even so, he reiterated that the main agenda was for Ruto to serve one term in the 2027 General Elections.
“I'm currently out of the country for strategic planning for a better Kenya. I will make my plan for Kenya for Kenyans to review, not Ruto. Agenda No. 1 is Ruto Must Go.”
Ruto mocked what he called empty opposition rhetoric, likening it to fraudulent schemes. "The more I listen, the more it sounds like sloganeering without a plan. They are saying, 'Let Ruto go, and we will figure out the plan later.' That sounds like wash wash conmanship,” he added.
“If you truly have a better economic, education, health, or jobs plan, you should be bold enough to table it,” Ruto said, in a direct challenge to opposition leaders and critics.
Despite the massive popularity slogans such as ‘Ruto Must Go’ and ‘Wantam’ have gained over the past few months, a new dynamic related to Kenyans’ assessment of opposition leaders such as Kalonzo, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has emerged. A heightened scope has been put on what the leaders plan to do if they are to ascend to power.
This is particularly after the emergence of Chief Justice David Maraga, who, many have observed to be presenting his plan if elected, even as he seeks support and funding from Kenyans.
Even so, Kalonzo and co. have still reiterated that the goal is to oust Ruto via the ballot, further adding that his policies, such as the housing levy, Social Health Authority (SHA,) and oppresive tactics are driving the nation backwards.
