President William Ruto has downplayed growing chants of 'Ruto Must Go' that have been echoing in various parts of the country.
Speaking during the burial of Raila Odinga's long-time aide George Oduor on Saturday, April 13, Ruto referred to the chants as a recurring feature of the political landscape.
“Criticism is normal. Now you are saying 'Ruto Must Go.' I have heard that several times. There was 'Moi Must Go,' and other leaders who were also told they must go. 'Must Go' is just a normal song and there is no problem with it," he said.
Ruto's remarks come at a time when the ‘Ruto Must Go’ chants have become popular across the country.
The wave started during the anti-finance bill protests in June 2024 and has continued in Ruto’s rallies and even government functions.
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The country has seen multiple scenarios of these chants with the most recent one being on Thursday, April 10, in Nakuru moments after Butere Girls' High School refused to perform their play, Echoes of War.
Additionally, this comes about two weeks after Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri addressed "Ruto Must Go" chants, urging citizens to express dissent within constitutional boundaries.
Speaking at the National Intelligence and Research University on Thursday, March 27, he stated that while citizens have the right to express themselves, it must be done within the limits set by the Constitution.
Kahariri 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.
