Thursday Newspaper Headlines Spark Uproar as Ruto, Gachagua Trade Blame in Escalating Political Showdown

Tensions reached a boiling point Wednesday as President William Ruto directly responded to intensifying “Ruto Must Go” protests sweeping across major towns and social media. His unexpected tone at the Nairobi Securities Exchange event hinted at both defiance and confusion, leaving Kenyans questioning the administration’s direction.

“What are your reasons for this ‘Ruto Must Go’?” the President asked, warning that like all leaders before him, his time would come. Meanwhile, his estranged former Deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, fired back from the United States, branding Ruto as a “confused Head of State” disconnected from the plight of Kenyans, particularly the youth. “He’s not listening—he’s deflecting,” Gachagua said, referencing the President’s earlier comments dismissing parental complaints over police violence on Gen Z protestors.

The day also saw a high-profile event in sports, as new NOC-K President Shadrack Maluki flagged off Team Kenya for the inaugural African School Games set to begin in Algeria this Friday. He pledged unwavering support for the young athletes, despite growing concerns over resource allocations.

Adding fuel to the national debate, MP Ndindi Nyoro warned of looming financial dangers tied to the Ksh.44.7 billion Linzi Finco bond, earmarked for the controversial Talanta Sports Stadium. Meant to host the 2027 AFCON, the stadium has now become a financial lightning rod, with critics accusing the government of prioritising prestige over prudence.

While Ruto’s team maintains the country is stable, opposition voices grow louder, financial experts question debt sustainability, and Gachagua’s words echo from abroad. What exactly is happening at the core of Kenya’s power structure—and who is really calling the shots? The answers remain murky, with more revelations likely in the coming days.