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Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has come out strongly in defence of the United Opposition’s “Ruto Must Go” slogan, describing it as a powerful call for change rather than an empty chant.
Kalonzo dismissed claims by President William Ruto that the opposition lacks a clear agenda, insisting the coalition is well organised and driven by a reform plan that can only be realised if Ruto leaves office.
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“The regime attacks us daily because they know what we already understand: change is inevitable. They accuse us of having no agenda, yet the truth is they are afraid of it,” the former Vice President said.
Speaking on Saturday night in Baltimore, USA, during a meeting with Kenyans living abroad, Kalonzo outlined some of the opposition’s key priorities, including scrapping the contentious Affordable Housing Levy and reviewing current tax policies.
“We will abolish the housing levy and bring to an end the heavy taxation that has suffocated Kenyan workers. We want to restore dignity to the payslip so that hard work benefits families, not just the State,” he said.
He also pledged to overhaul the education sector, saying the opposition would revive the high standards once championed during the Kibaki administration.
“We will rebuild our education system to a world-class level, one that equips Kenyans to compete globally rather than merely survive,” Kalonzo added.
The opposition leader, who is positioning himself for the joint United Opposition presidential ticket in 2027, argued that meaningful reforms cannot happen without first removing Ruto from power.
“Let’s be clear: none of this is possible without the first and non-negotiable step—Ruto must go. You cannot reform a system while leaving its architect in charge. Real change begins with accountability,” he said.
Kalonzo said he was deeply encouraged by his engagement with Kenyans in Baltimore, particularly praising young leaders from the Gen Z-led 625 Movement for their boldness and resolve.
“They refuse to be silenced or to accept national decline as inevitable. They remind us that Kenya’s future belongs to those brave enough to demand better,” he said.
He noted that the diaspora raised important concerns around representation, inclusion and the country’s direction, assuring them of a meaningful role in a future opposition-led government.
“In the government we are forming, the diaspora will not be used as election-season ornaments. You will have a real seat at the table as partners in transforming our nation. Leadership will be based on competence and contribution, not convenience,” Kalonzo stated.
His remarks come amid President Ruto’s continued challenge to the opposition to clearly articulate its agenda, arguing that calls for his removal alone are insufficient.
Speaking in Mombasa during the disbursement of Nyota funds, the President said the country needs issue-based politics focused on solutions rather than constant political agitation.
Ruto accused opposition leaders of recycling one-term slogans without offering concrete alternatives on jobs, the economy and the high cost of living.
“What is your agenda? It cannot just be removing Ruto from office. They have no youth agenda, no policies, and nothing to offer Kenyans,” the President said.
Ruto maintained that his administration remains focused on implementing its development agenda and urged voters to judge leaders based on tangible programmes rather than political slogans.
