Shoot Ruto at the ballot
Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka is urging Kenyans to stand up against President William Ruto by using their votes in the upcoming elections.
While speaking at the Wiper Patriotic Front National Delegate Congress 2025 (NDC) at Uhuru Park on October 10, Kalonzo took aim at Ruto’s previous orders to security forces during protests, describing them as a direct assault on the rights guaranteed by the constitution.
“Ruto ordered you to be shot not on the head but on the legs because you dared to exercise your constitutional rights. I urge you, fellow Kenyans, especially the Gen Z and young people today, to shoot Ruto at the ballot,” Kalonzo said.
He urged those who have not registered to vote to do so, adding, “This is what will make Ruto respond.” Kalonzo emphasised national unity, stating, “When we rise together, no mountain is too high, when we rise together, no government can suppress us, and Kenya will stand again.”
He took a moment to recognize the leaders who were present at the NDC.
“Today, I acknowledge the presence of my brother, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua; my twin sister, Martha Karua; my younger brother, Eugene Wamalwa; my brother, Fred Matiang’i; and Speaker emeritus, one of our most distinguished Kenyan leaders, our brother Justin Muturi. I also recognise my friend, Professor Wajackoyah, and others who have joined us. I extend to you all my message of congratulations and appreciation.”
Kalonzo’s comments came after he had previously spoken out on July 12, 2025, criticizing Ruto’s orders to shoot looters in the legs during protests.
“A president should represent unity, hope, and prosperity. President Ruto’s inhumane command to shoot demonstrators in the legs should be absolutely condemned and rejected,” he said.
He called the directive unlawful, stating, “Shooting a peaceful Kenyan under any circumstances is not only unlawful but also inhumane and completely unacceptable in any democracy that functions properly.”
While speaking at Twimyua Secondary School, Kalonzo criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration for using security forces as tools of control, cautioning against efforts to normalize the use of force against civilians.
“There is an unconstitutional backdoor attempt to return Kenya to a dictatorship from democracy,” he said.
The original orders, given by President Ruto on July 9, 2025, told officers to “shoot in the leg anyone caught looting during the protests” while making sure they end up in court. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen backed this directive in June, stressing the need for security measures around police stations.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also chimed in, calling for respect for due process.
“We are all better served as a country when we stick to the principle that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, a determination that can only be made by a competent court of law. Let’s prioritise arrests and arraignment in courts over killing, maiming, or brutalising suspects,” Raila stated.
The heated controversy has really ramped up political discussions, with opposition leaders rallying support as the elections draw near.
Shoot Ruto at the ballot
