Aasai

President William Ruto was forced to abandon his visit to Isiolo County on Friday, February 7, 2025, after persistent heckling disrupted the groundbreaking ceremony for the County Aggregation and Industrial Park project.

Chaotic Scenes as Crowd Chants "Ruto Must Go"

Tension escalated when Isiolo MP Bonaya Mumina Gollo took the stage, triggering chants of “Ruto must go” from a section of the crowd. The situation prompted Governor Abdi Guyo to intervene, urging residents to respect the president.

“Leo ni siku ya rais wacha tupatie rais heshima. Tupatie rais heshima. Tuskize viongozi wote,” pleaded Governor Guyo, emphasizing the need for order.

However, the appeal did little to calm the gathering, as Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo also faced intense heckling when she attempted to address the audience.

Ruto Links Protests to Drug Traffickers

Reacting to the unrest, President Ruto blamed drug traffickers for funding the protests, alleging they were retaliating against his administration’s crackdown on narcotics in the region.

“We have a serious problem with drug dealers from other countries selling drugs to our children. Let me be clear – we will deport these drug dealers,” Ruto declared.

The president remained firm, asserting that his government would continue with development projects in Isiolo despite opposition.

“Take your threats elsewhere. I will build Isiolo,” he stated defiantly.

President Forced to Cut Short Visit

Despite his resolve, the increasing hostility made it impossible to continue with the event. As residents intensified their "Ruto must go" chants, the president decided to end his speech prematurely and leave the venue.

“You have fierce competition here,” he remarked before departing.

The incident highlights the growing political tensions in the region as Ruto’s administration faces mounting opposition over governance and economic challenges.

What the main media cannot show you. Here is the video of Isiolo residents chanting 'Ruto Must Go' to Ruto's face. The fear is gone! pic.twitter.com/lEmYl2wS6X

— Cornelius K. Ronoh (@itskipronoh) February 7, 2025