Jubilee Party Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s popular political slogan, Wantam, arguing that it has inadvertently strengthened President William Ruto’s administration instead of weakening it.
The term “Wantam,” a slang adaptation of the phrase “one term,” has become a rallying cry for those pushing to limit President Ruto to a single five-year term in office.
It gained widespread popularity among young Kenyans and government critics during a wave of nationwide protests in 2024 and 2025.
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Gachagua has been one of the leading voices behind the movement, vowing to ensure that President Ruto is a Wantam leader in the 2027 general elections. His campaign has been fuelled by allegations of mismanagement, economic hardship, and accusations that Ruto’s government has failed to protect the youth and address their concerns.
However, during an interview with Radio Generation Kenya on Wednesday, Kioni—who also served as the Member of Parliament for Ndaragwa Constituency—claimed that the slogan has not achieved its intended objective. Instead, he argued, it has emboldened Ruto’s government, allowing it to act with increasing confidence and, at times, arrogance.
“This Wantam slogan is interpreted by the government to mean they will stay in power until the end of their term without serious consequences,” Kioni remarked.
“It is like telling them they are safe until after the election, which has made them more comfortable and, unfortunately, more arrogant.”
Kioni further explained that rather than restraining the administration, the slogan has given it leeway to engage in actions it would previously have avoided for fear of public backlash.
“They are now doing things openly—things they once worried about,” he said.
“You can see them hosting delegations at the State House with renewed confidence, as if they have already overcome all opposition.”
In recent weeks, President Ruto has dismissed the Wantam movement, challenging the opposition—led by Gachagua—to present alternative policies and solutions to the country’s problems rather than simply chanting slogans at public rallies.
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