UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has strongly defended President William Ruto amid growing public anger over recent fuel price hikes announced by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).
Omar warned critics against what he termed as “continuous destruction” of the country.
Speaking in a firm tone, the SG said Kenya had reached a point where leaders and citizens alike must draw the line on political hostility and unrest, insisting that the focus should shift to democratic processes rather than confrontation.
“We have gotten to that point in our lives where we must say enough is enough,” Omar said.
"Mnaharibu nchi buana, throughout. Ni nyinyi mnaharibu infrastructure, mnaibia watu. What has Ruto done to you that is so bad?”
He questioned the intensity of criticism directed at the Head of State, especially in the wake of public frustration over rising living costs, including fuel prices.
According to him, grievances should be expressed within constitutional and democratic channels rather than through actions that destabilise the country.
“If you feel he is incapable of leadership, why don’t you just wait for 2027 and exercise your democratic right?” he posed.
“Go where? Which passing cloud? Do what? There is a constitutional transition in this country.”
Omar who was addressing the press Tuesday stressed that Kenya operates under a structured democratic system where leadership changes occur through elections, not chaos or disruption.
He urged political actors and citizens to respect institutional processes and avoid actions that could undermine national stability.
The UDA official further argued that ongoing tensions and protests risk harming infrastructure and ordinary citizens who rely on public services and economic stability.
He maintained that political disagreements should not translate into what he described as destructive behaviour.
“Throughout history, nations that ignore their constitutional order end up hurting their own people,” he said, indirectly warning against escalating protests or unrest linked to economic grievances.
His remarks come at a time when public debate has intensified over the rising cost of living, with fuel prices remaining a central concern for many households and transport operators.
The latest EPRA adjustment has triggered criticism from opposition leaders and sections of the public, who accuse the government of failing to cushion citizens from economic pressure.
However, Omar maintained that despite the challenges, the country remains on a democratic path and citizens will have an opportunity to make political choices in the next general election in 2027.
He called for restraint, urging Kenyans to channel frustrations through lawful and peaceful means while allowing government processes to address economic concerns.
“Let us not destroy what we have built as a nation because of temporary frustrations,” he added.
