No shortcut to votes, mjitayarishe vizuri – Cheruiyot tells opposition

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has called on the opposition to move beyond criticism and present concrete alternatives to Kenya’s pressing challenges.

Cheruiyot said the current opposition approach lacks substance.

“Mimi nataka kuwaambia wale wanataka kushindana na William Ruto wajitayarishe vizuri. Hakuna kura mtapata roundi hii,” he said.

(I want to tell those who want to compete with William Ruto to prepare well. You will not get any votes this round)

Speaking during the Inua Mama Mboga empowerment program at Kericho Teachers Training College, Cheruiyot said electoral success cannot be achieved through meetings in hotels or superficial gatherings.

“Kura haipatikani kwa mahoteli na kwa mikutano ile mnangoja (Votes are not won in hotels or by waiting around in those meetings),” he said, emphasising that meaningful engagement with citizens and tangible policy proposals are critical to earning public support.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuiya, among several other elected leaders, were present.

Over 135 women's groups benefited from support aimed at boosting small-scale businesses.

Cheruiyot alleged opposition leaders often focus on criticism without presenting detailed policy proposals, claiming that some of their meetings are held in private venues that may be distant from the day-to-day experiences of ordinary Kenyans.

“It’s easy to critique from hotel rooms, but it is harder to roll up your sleeves and implement ideas that improve lives,” he said.

The senator’s remarks come amid increasing political activity ahead of upcoming elections, as both the ruling party and opposition intensify their campaigns.

He also highlighted his party’s focus on empowering grassroots communities, particularly women entrepreneurs, as an example of actionable programmes.

The initiative at Kericho TTC provided participants with training on business management, access to microloans, and mentorship to enhance productivity and sustainability of their ventures. Cheruiyot said such programs illustrate how development-focused policies can directly benefit citizens.

The senator’s statements come as the ruling coalition prepares for the 2027 general election.

President William Ruto will be seeking reelection.

Cheruiyot reiterated the need for all political players to engage directly with communities and prioritise policies that foster economic empowerment, social welfare, and national development.

"We are committed to providing necessary support, conducive environments and opportunities to women and any other enterprising Kenyan to thrive at their crafts," he said.