What was meant to be a patriotic and spirited moment as Kenyans gathered to support Harambee Stars in their FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon turned into a political statement.
Moments before the match kicked off at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, March 23, 2025, the stadium erupted with chants of “Ruto Must Go.”
The anti-government slogan, which has been widely used by dissatisfied Kenyans over recent months, rang across the stadium as fans voiced their discontent with President William Ruto’s administration. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment, showing thousands of fans passionately participating in the chants.
The highly anticipated match, scheduled to kick off at 4 pm has attracted a massive turnout.
On Saturday, March 22, 2025, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed that all tickets had been sold out. Kenya and Gabon are both competing in CAF’s Group F as they battle for a spot in the World Cup.
“All tickets for our FIFA World Cup qualifier against Gabon are officially sold out! Your unwavering support means everything! Let’s paint Nyayo red, black, and green this Sunday. Come cheer the team and let your voices be heard; your energy could make all the difference,” FKF announced.
The slogan “Ruto Must Go” has gained momentum over time, being chanted at various public events. The dissatisfaction traces back to June 2024, when Gen Z-led protests erupted against the proposed Finance Bill 2024.
‘Ruto must go’
The discontent has not been limited to protests alone. On Mashujaa Day, October 20, 2024, in Juja, a Deputy County Commissioner faced a hostile crowd while reading President Ruto’s speech. Attendees drowned out his voice with ‘Ruto Must Go’
Similarly, during a funeral service in Bibilioni village, Bahati Constituency, on October 11, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika was met with resistance while delivering a condolence message from President Ruto. The mourners responded with loud chants expressing their frustration with the administration.
Political figures have also been swept into the movement. On December 14, 2024, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka led a crowd in chanting against Ruto during a football tournament in Machakos Stadium organized by Governor Wavinya Ndeti.
On February 15, 2025, following Raila Odinga’s loss in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship race, residents of Kondele, Kisumu, protested by chanting against Ruto.
The movement continued in Nairobi on March 2, 2025, when concertgoers at a Burna Boy performance joined in chanting “Ruto Must Go.” The protest spirit extended beyond Kenya’s borders when, on March 15, 2025, Kenyan fans at a London concert by local artist Bien echoed the same slogan, showing that even the diaspora is engaged in the political discourse.
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