Ruto leads “riswa” chant against divisive politics in Vihiga

President William Ruto  addressing residents of Vihiga County on March 19, 2025/PCS

President William Ruto on Thursday led a crowd in a spirited “riswa” chant against leaders he said promote tribal and divisive politics during a development tour in Vihiga County.

The event also highlighted ongoing government projects in the region.

Speaking to residents and local leaders, Ruto addressed what he described as attempts by some political figures to stir ethnic tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a mix of Kiswahili and English, he condemned tribal politics, saying such behaviour had no place in a united Kenya.

“Wewe mtu wa pepo chafu ya ukabila. Wewe huna nafasi katika Kenya hii,” the President said, targeting unnamed critics he accused of promoting division.

“Sisi tunaungana, tumeshirikiana watu kutoka Coast, watu wa North Eastern, watu wa Central Kenya, watu wa Rift Valley, Western hii, Nyanza, Eastern. Sisi ni ndugu moja, tusikubali watu wa kueneza hizi ukabila.”

At several points, the crowd echoed the President, chanting “riswa” after he mentioned negative attributes he associated with certain leaders, such as “watu wa chuki,” in a show of solidarity with his message.

“Nimeambiwa hapa tuwaambie riswa…hule mtu ya pepo ya ukabila, riswa,” he added, eliciting laughter and applause from residents.

While the chant was largely symbolic, the event also showcased the government’s development efforts in the county.

Residents observed ongoing road upgrades, electrification programmes, and other civic improvements aimed at boosting local economic growth.

The President also presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Kidundu Stadium, a 10,000-seat facility expected to be completed within nine months under the supervision of the Kenya Defence Forces.

The government described the stadium as a boost to sports infrastructure and youth engagement in the region.

Ruto emphasised that the stadium and other projects reflect the government’s commitment to expanding infrastructure and socio‑economic opportunities.

He also inspected ongoing initiatives, including road upgrades, last‑mile electrification programmes, and water projects, pointing to tangible government investment alongside his political messaging.