Ruto tells political opponents to hit the Gym ahead of 2027 elections

President William Ruto on Tuesday publicly urged his political opponents to “hit the gym,” a barb that reflects deepening tensions as Kenya gears up for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking in Cheptais, Mt. Elgon, Ruto targeted critics including former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, who had mocked the president’s weight loss, prompting a surge in personal attacks between political camps.

Ruto’s remarks, delivered in Sheng and punctuated by scoffs from his supporters, were cast as both a jab at opponents’ fitness and a critique of their failure to outline a substantive agenda for voters.

“I want to ask these people to go to the gym. Stop eating too much; your stomach will burst. You even fall asleep during meetings,” Ruto said, provoking laughter among the crowd and drawing fresh controversy for perceived body‑shaming.

Opposition counters with political push

Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party, responded by continuing to criticize Ruto’s leadership and pledged to unseat him in 2027. His party and allied opposition forces have been pushing a “one‑term presidency” campaign, arguing that the current administration has lost touch with ordinary Kenyans’ economic struggles and governance concerns.

This feud comes amid broader political mobilization by opposition factions including Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Party, which has been urging increased voter registration to challenge the ruling coalition.

Analysts say the rhetoric signals that personal attacks — including on physical appearance and leadership style — are increasingly replacing policy debates as the election race heats up.

Broader political landscape ahead of 2027

Political analysts note that public discourse in Kenya has been fraught with social media‑driven movements and heated grassroots campaigns since the #RutoMustGo protests in 2024, which reflected rising public dissatisfaction with government policies.

With the 2027 vote approaching, both the ruling United Democratic Alliance and opposition coalitions are sharpening their messaging.