The Rise of “Ruto Must Go”: A Game-Changing Political Shift in Kenya

 In the midst of headlines dominated by floods and political controversies, a groundbreaking event occurred recently that many have overlooked. This event, I believe, marks one of the most significant political developments in recent Kenyan history. To understand its gravity, let us rewind to a pivotal moment in 1991.

At the time, ordinary Kenyans at a rally ignited a chant: “Moi Must Go.” It spread like wildfire, picking up momentum among politicians and citizens alike. Within months, a surprising political shift occurred—Kenya returned to multiparty democracy, a move that shocked even the most optimistic analysts. While then-President Moi responded strategically, using multiparty democracy to extend his rule, the chant catalyzed a seismic shift in Kenyan politics.

Fast forward to today, presidential aspirant Jimmy Wanjigi has reignited a similar call with the chant: “Ruto Must Go.” Whether you view Wanjigi as a flawed figure or a strategic visionary, it’s undeniable that his calculated political moves since 2022 have positioned him as a key player. From highlighting the illegitimacy of certain foreign debts to making accurate predictions about Kenya’s economic woes, Wanjigi has captured public attention. His latest move—labeling President Ruto’s administration as having reached a "dead end"—strikes at the heart of the government’s challenges.

Why This Matters Now

Three major factors amplify the impact of Wanjigi’s call:

1. Mounting Strikes and Protests

The ongoing doctor’s strike, coupled with past anti-government protests, has created a groundswell of dissatisfaction. These events serve as the foundation for Wanjigi’s momentum. Like children jumping onto a downhill go-cart, all he needs is to leverage the movement already in motion.

2. Floods and Public Perception

Devastating floods have further eroded public trust in the government. Although natural disasters are beyond anyone's control, public perception has squarely blamed the administration for its lack of preparedness. In politics, perception often outweighs reality, and this narrative has fueled public anger against President Ruto and his party, UDA.

3. Opposition Vacuum

With prominent opposition leaders seemingly neutralized or restrained, Wanjigi has stepped into the void. His timing and messaging resonate with frustrated Kenyans, positioning him as a rallying figure for change.

The Historical Parallel

History shows that such chants can snowball into unstoppable movements. In 1991, the “Moi Must Go” call faced initial resistance and repression but only grew stronger, ultimately reshaping the nation’s political landscape. However, President Ruto lacks the strategic maneuvering skills Moi exhibited, making his administration’s position more precarious.

What Lies Ahead

The coming weeks are crucial. The chant of “Ruto Must Go” is likely to gain momentum, fueled by economic struggles, public anger, and a sense of betrayal. While the administration may attempt to suppress dissent, such actions often accelerate the very movements they seek to quell.

Wanjigi’s personal flaws and questionable past do not diminish the significance of his political strategy. For now, he is capitalizing on a tide of discontent, riding a wave that could redefine Kenya’s political future. Whether this leads to meaningful change or an intensified political crisis remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the chant of “Ruto Must Go” has ignited a fire that may not be easily extinguished.