President Ruto Forced To Cut Short Isiolo Visit After ‘Ruto Must Go Chants’ By Residents

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, President William Ruto’s visit to Isiolo County was abruptly cut short due to persistent heckling from residents during the groundbreaking ceremony for the County Aggregation and Industrial Park project.

The tension escalated when attendees began chanting “Ruto must go” following an address by Isiolo MP Bonaya Mumina Gollo. 

In an attempt to calm the situation, Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo urged the crowd to respect the president, stating, “Today is the President’s day; let’s give him respect. Let’s listen to all leaders. Those who are used to organizing heckling, you will not return to heckling in Isiolo. Do we understand each other?” 

The unrest intensified when Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo attempted to address the gathering but was met with heckles, preventing her from speaking. She pleaded with the crowd, saying, “Let us not throw stones.” 

In response to the hostile reception, President Ruto accused drug traffickers of orchestrating the protests as retaliation against his administration’s crackdown on narcotics in the region.

He asserted, “We’ve been having problems in Isiolo and Marsabit with people from other countries bringing drugs here and selling them to our children. Let me be clear – we will deport these drug dealers.” He further warned, “I hear these drug dealers have brought youth to heckle us here. Listen carefully, young people – you cannot intimidate the Kenyan government.” 

Despite the disruptions, President Ruto remained resolute, vowing to continue with development projects in the region. He stated firmly, “Take your threats elsewhere. I will build Isiolo.”

However, as he attempted to introduce his allies, the crowd’s dissatisfaction grew, with residents waving their hands and continuing their chants.

Ultimately, the president was compelled to end his speech prematurely, remarking, “You have fierce competition here,” before departing the event. 

This incident in Isiolo reflects ongoing tensions and public sentiment against Ruto’s policies or administration, as evidenced by similar anti-government sentiments expressed in various parts of the country through social media posts and local protests. The “Ruto must go” chants have been a recurring theme in several regions, highlighting significant public unrest and dissatisfaction with the current government’s actions or perceived failures.