Ruto Warns Opposition to ‘Read the Signs’ After Sweeping Defeat in By-Elections

By Andrew Mbuva 

President William Ruto has told the Opposition to brace for more political shockwaves following their heavy losses in this week’s by-elections, saying the outcome reflects the public’s rejection of “empty politics” and divisive rhetoric.

Speaking on Friday in Kiambu during the launch of the dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road at Kamandura, the President said the just-concluded polls — held in constituencies and wards stretching from Mbeere to Kasipul, Banissa, Baringo and Malava — had sent an unmistakable message to the Opposition.

“Out of the seven parliamentary and Senate seats contested, the Opposition did not win a single one. Isn’t that true?” the President told the crowd, using the results to underline what he described as a turning point in national politics.

He accused Opposition leaders of lacking ideas and relying on slogans instead of tangible development plans. “There are people in this country who are used to empty talk. When they come before you, they have no agenda, no policies. They only shout: ‘One term, Kasongo must go.’ That is not a plan,” he said.

Ruto dismissed the Opposition’s messaging as shallow and disconnected from the needs of ordinary Kenyans. He argued that those pushing personality-driven politics were unprepared to address issues such as road infrastructure, water supply, affordable housing and the operations of the Social Health Authority.

“They don’t know how a highway like this one is built. They don’t understand how our people will get water. They try to sell tribalism, hate and division. And I have told them clearly — that is not a policy,” he said.

The President insisted that his administration is focused on generational transformation, not short-term political battles. He contrasted the government’s development agenda with what he termed the Opposition’s obsession with the next election.

“We are discussing the next generation; they are discussing the next election. We are talking about the people; they are talking about leaders. The difference between us is as clear as day and night,” he said.

Ruto urged Kenyans to reject divisive politics, warning the Opposition that their strategy would only sink them further. “If they continue this way, we will defeat them early and decisively,” he declared.

The launch of the dualling of the Rironi–Mau Summit Road marks a major infrastructure milestone for the region, with the President saying such projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to development over political theatrics.

As the dust settles on the by-elections, Ruto’s message was unmistakable: the Opposition must rethink its approach or face continued rejection at the ballot.