'Watafute sera, Wantam haitoshi,' Ruto tells opposition during Kakamega tour

President William Ruto has upped the ante in his attacks on opposition leaders, accusing them of lacking ideas and relying on smear campaigns instead of offering concrete development plans.

The President challenged the opposition to match him on his development track record, urging Kenyans not to be swayed by what he termed as empty political rhetoric.

Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega County, during the Governor Fernandes Barasa Cup final, became the latest platform for President Ruto’s offensive against the united opposition, whom he dismissed as unfit to lead, saying they lack a development track record and a viable agenda to offer Kenyans.

“Kila kiongozi akuje na record yake. Mimi niko tayari kuja na record yangu hapa Kakamega. Niliwaambia wale jamaa waache maneno matupu, watafute sera, watafute mpango, watafute maono. ‘Wantam Kasongo must go’ haitoshi,” said Ruto.

The President also took a swipe at Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, questioning his presidential ambitions and accusing him of failing to deliver development even in his backyard.

“Hata barabara ya kwenda kwake hajafanya. Ya Kakamega atapanga saa ngapi?” Ruto said.

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa assured the President of support from the county.

“Nataka kukuhakikishia kwamba Kakamega iko locked. Usijali. Tafuta kura kule kwingine. Hapa uko sawa,” said Barasa.

Selling his development agenda, President Ruto promised to upgrade Bukhungu Stadium to a 25,000-seater capacity by the end of the year, including the installation of a canopy.

“Leo tumecheza kwa mvua, lakini ifikapo Desemba tutakuwa tumemaliza hii stadium na tumeweka canopy,” Ruto said.

Governor Barasa said the county leadership would work with the President to deliver development projects.

“Watu wa Kakamega, tutatembea na Rais tujenge stadium, tujenge barabara na manyumba,” he said.

President Ruto’s remarks come amid heightened political activity as both government and opposition camps position themselves as the 2027 General Election draws closer.