Ndegwa Njiru: ‘Wantam’ slogan rattling Ruto’s sleep
Outspoken advocate and political commentator Ndegwa Njiru has launched a blistering attack on President William Ruto, claiming that the growing public discontent under the WANTAM movement signals the end of his political grip.
In a statement on his X account on Sunday, August 31, 2025, Njiru dismissed Ruto’s public pronouncements as hollow and out of touch with the realities facing millions of struggling Kenyans.
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“Mr. William Ruto, if WANTAM were just a slogan, it wouldn’t rattle your sleep. Clearly, the people’s roar is louder than your empty morning declarations and self-worship,” the X post read in part.
The WANTAM movement (One term) has gained traction online and in protest spaces, with citizens expressing frustration over the high cost of living, state impunity, and broken campaign promises.
While the ruling coalition has downplayed the movement as a political stunt, Njiru insisted that the groundswell of anger it represents is too real to ignore.
“You can dismiss WANTAM, but you can’t dismiss a hungry people waiting for change at sunrise,” the statement read.
Njiru’s remarks come amid growing unrest across the country, particularly among the youth, who have been at the forefront of online and street protests.
The advocate warned that the administration’s dismissive tone only further alienates a population already on edge.
“You are done and dusted!” Njiru declared.
The lawyer’s comments reflect a rising chorus of dissent from civil society leaders, opposition politicians, and grassroots activists who say the current regime is out of touch with the everyday struggles of ordinary Kenyans.
Ruto tells off critics
Ruto has dismissed the opposition’s ‘Wantam’ slogan, saying it will not derail his administration’s plans and asserting that when politics begins, his team will show their strength.
Recalling Kenya’s history of political slogans such as “Tibim” and “Tialala,” Ruto ridiculed the latest catchphrase being promoted by his rivals.
“Si tulikuwa na ingine ya Tibim, Tialala, sasa tuko na Wantam Kasongo,” the President told a cheering crowd in Kapsabet town, Nandi County on Saturday, August 30, 2025. “Tuta wanyorosha asubuhi na mapema. Kwa hivyo msikuwe na wasiwasi… Siasa ikianza tutawaonyesha kivumbi. Eh, munaelewa?”
(“We’ve had other slogans like Tibim, Tialala, and now we have Wantam Kasongo,” the President told a cheering crowd in Kapsabet town, Nandi County. “We will deal with them bright and early in the morning. So don’t worry… When politics begins, we will show them who’s boss. You understand?”).
Ruto, who earlier attended the installation of John Kiplimo Arap Lelei as the first Bishop of the newly established Catholic Diocese of Kapsabet, urged Kenyans not to be distracted by political gimmicks.
The Head of State called on citizens to focus on the development programs his government is implementing across the country.
He also reassured supporters that his political team is ready for the challenges ahead, noting that service delivery will remain the strongest campaign tool.
The President emphasised that while rivals may rely on slogans, his record of development provides a solid foundation for re-election.
