Opposition Blasts Ruto Over ‘Punitive Taxes’, Warns Against 2027 Election Rigging

Opposition leaders have launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto’s administration, accusing the government of burdening Kenyans with punitive taxes, soaring fuel prices, and harsh economic policies contained in the proposed Finance Bill.

Speaking during an interdenominational peace prayer meeting held at the Blue Post Hotel, opposition leaders led by Kalonzo Musyoka claimed the Kenya Kwanza administration had ignored the economic suffering facing ordinary wananchi.

Kalonzo, who leads the Wiper Patriotic Front, warned that the proposed Finance Bill would worsen the already high cost of living and push struggling families deeper into hardship.

“Kenyans are suffering because of punitive taxes, high fuel prices and policies that do not favour ordinary citizens. Instead of easing the burden, the government is introducing more measures that will make life even harder,” Kalonzo said.

The former Vice President cautioned that continued economic pressure could trigger public unrest if the government fails to address citizens’ concerns over the rising cost of living.

He also urged political leaders to avoid divisive rhetoric and ethnic profiling ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that Kenya must never return to the dark days of the 2007 post-election violence.

“We should not profile or attack any community because of politics. Kenya belongs to all of us and leaders must promote unity instead of incitement,” he stated.

Kalonzo further criticized remarks by some leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance suggesting the possibility of manipulating the 2027 elections in favour of the ruling administration.

He termed such sentiments reckless and inflammatory, warning that Kenyans would not tolerate any attempts to interfere with the democratic process.

The opposition leader called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and public participation in preparations for the next General Election.

Also speaking at the event, Justin Muturi urged political leaders to exercise restraint and mutual respect during political campaigns, saying insults and inflammatory statements risk deepening divisions in the country.

“Leaders must respect one another even when they disagree politically. Belittling others and using inflammatory language can easily divide Kenyans and heighten political tensions,” Muturi said.

Former Nyali MP Mohammed Ali also warned the electoral commission against any attempts to manipulate the outcome of the 2027 elections, insisting that Kenyans expect a free, fair, and credible electoral process.

The leaders maintained that the country’s stability depends on economic justice, political tolerance, and transparent elections as the nation heads toward another highly contested political season.