Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has fired back at Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri over his recent warning regarding the use of the phrase 'Ruto Must Go'.
Speaking on Saturday, March 29, Gachagua urged the military to remain neutral in political matters, noting that the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is the only trusted institution by Kenyans.
"General Kahariri, please, let the military remain a professional institution because it is the only organization that the people of Kenya trust. So, do not bring politics into the military," he said.
Gachagua dismissed concerns that the phrase implied an unconstitutional attempt to remove President William Ruto from office, instead, framing it as a call for democratic change in the upcoming 2027 general election.
"For your information, the phrase ‘Ruto Must Go’ does not mean removing him from office unlawfully. No, it is a clarion call in preparation for the 2027 general election. Ruto will be removed constitutionally through the 2027 elections in a democratic and legal process," he added.
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Speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University on Thursday, March 27, Kahariri addressed "Ruto Must Go" chants, urging citizens to express dissent within constitutional boundaries.
He stated that while citizens have the right to express themselves, it must be done within the limits set by the Constitution.
He highlighted the military's role in defending the Constitution and the duly elected government, cautioning against actions that could lead to anarchy.
"We cannot have anarchy as a country. Even as people exercise their freedom, they must do so within certain limits. We, the military, are apolitical; we do not support any side.
"We defend the Constitution and the government of the day, duly elected by the people. Now that you feel tired of somebody you genuinely elected and begin to chant 'Must Go', that 'Must Go' should be done in accordance with the Constitution," he said.
