In a joint statement issued on Sunday, opposition leaders said the President’s language toward dissenting voices reflected arrogance and intolerance, warning that such remarks undermine democratic engagement and erode public confidence in leadership.
They argued that criticism of government policy should not be met with insults, especially from the highest office in the land.
The President must remember that leadership demands humility, empathy and respect for all Kenyans,” the statement read. “Labeling concerned citizens and leaders as ‘fools’ does not solve the real problems facing our children and their families.”
The opposition linked the President’s remarks to what they described as a growing education crisis, pointing to overcrowded classrooms, inadequate funding, teacher shortages and confusion surrounding the implementation of education reforms.
According to the leaders, many parents are struggling to cope with rising costs, while learners in public schools face declining learning conditions.
They accused the government of being out of touch with the lived realities of ordinary Kenyans, particularly students from vulnerable backgrounds.
“While learners lack books, desks and teachers, the President appears more interested in silencing critics than listening to them,” the opposition claimed.
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The statement further argued that constructive criticism is essential for good governance and policy improvement, especially in sensitive sectors such as education.
The leaders urged President Ruto to engage stakeholders, including teachers, parents and education experts, rather than dismissing concerns as political noise.
In response to past criticism, President Ruto has defended his administration, insisting that his government is focused on long-term reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and improving service delivery.
He has maintained that some critics deliberately misrepresent government efforts for political gain.
However, the opposition warned that continued use of inflammatory language could deepen divisions and distract from urgent national issues.
They called on the President to adopt a more conciliatory tone and demonstrate empathy toward learners whose futures, they said, remain at risk.
