By Mumo Judah | July 20, 2026
Gatundu North Member of Parliament Elijah Njoroge Kururia has challenged Kenyans to move beyond ethnic politics and political rhetoric by giving what he described as genuine personal reasons for opposing President William Ruto’s bid for re-election in the 2027 General Election.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, the independent legislator called on citizens to distinguish between political incitement and legitimate policy concerns, urging them to explain why they would not support the President for a second term.
“State one reason why you are mad at President William Samoei Ruto and you feel like you don’t want him to be re-elected in 2027 apart from chuki and Gachagua’s incitement. Give me your personal reason why you are singing ‘Wantam’,” Kururia wrote.
The MP argued that political discourse should be guided by facts, public policy and governance issues rather than emotions, tribal sentiments or partisan campaigns.
According to Kururia, Kenyans should critically evaluate the government’s performance based on tangible outcomes and explain their positions using evidence instead of relying on political slogans.
His remarks come at a time when the phrase “Wantam” has increasingly become a rallying call among sections of the opposition opposing President Ruto’s re-election campaign ahead of the 2027 polls.
Kururia’s challenge has sparked debate online, with Kenyans offering varying opinions on the Kenya Kwanza administration’s record over the past four years.
Among the issues frequently raised by critics are the rising cost of living, increased taxation, unemployment and concerns over the implementation of some government policies.
Some citizens have cited the introduction of new statutory deductions, including the Affordable Housing Levy and changes to health insurance contributions, arguing that the measures have reduced disposable income for many salaried workers.
Others have questioned the pace at which campaign promises made during the 2022 General Election have been fulfilled, particularly those relating to job creation, economic recovery and support for small businesses.
The implementation of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda has also remained a subject of public debate, with supporters arguing that the reforms require time to bear fruit, while critics contend that many ordinary Kenyans are yet to experience the promised economic benefits.
Security and human rights issues have equally featured prominently in recent political discussions, especially following reports of violence, arrests and alleged abductions during demonstrations held in different parts of the country.
Human rights organizations and opposition leaders have repeatedly called for accountability over alleged abuses by security agencies, while the government has maintained that law enforcement officers operate within the law to safeguard public order.
Political analysts also point to internal disagreements within sections of the Kenya Kwanza administration as another issue that has attracted public attention, with occasional differences among senior government officials fueling debate over cohesion within the ruling coalition.
Despite the criticism directed at the administration, President Ruto’s allies continue to defend the government’s record, citing infrastructure development, expanded social protection programmes, agricultural reforms and ongoing investments in affordable housing, healthcare and education.
Kururia maintained that constructive criticism is essential in a democracy but emphasized that voters should evaluate leaders based on policies, performance and measurable achievements rather than political hostility or ethnic divisions.
The legislator urged Kenyans to participate in issue-based politics as the country gradually prepares for the 2027 General Election, saying informed public debate is necessary for strengthening democratic governance and accountability.
His remarks add to the growing national conversation over the government’s performance, with political leaders from both the ruling coalition and the opposition increasingly engaging the public on the key issues likely to shape the next election.
