Opposition Demands Ruto Explain Apology and Compensate Victims

Opposition leaders have urged President William Ruto to clarify the mistakes that prompted his recent apology to Kenyan youth. Speaking during a rally in Machakos County on Friday, the leaders, led by Wiper party chief Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, demanded justice and compensation for families who lost loved ones during recent protests.

Kalonzo emphasized that the government has yet to acknowledge or compensate those affected. “The government is yet to compensate those who lost their loved ones,” he stated, echoing widespread public outcry over police brutality. Gachagua, now a vocal critic of the Kenya Kwanza administration, called for opposition unity in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. “Tushikane mkono sote, kazi yetu ni kumtoa William Ruto,” he said.

Democratic Action Party – Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa questioned the sincerity of the President’s apology without accountability. “Hatuwezi kuwa na msamaha bila kujua kijana wa kwanza Rex (Masai) kutoka Machakos aliuwawa na nani,” he said, referring to the slain protester whose death has become symbolic of youth grievances.

Meanwhile, in Kirinyaga County, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua launched her 2027 presidential bid, urging the opposition to support her candidacy. She criticized the Kenya Kwanza administration for corruption and legal violations, insisting the country is headed in the wrong direction.

The opposition coalition announced plans to intensify efforts to unseat President Ruto, vowing to limit his leadership to a single term. As tensions rise, opposition leaders say they are laying the groundwork for a united and robust political campaign to reclaim leadership in 2027.