Kenya’s president defiant, backs security forces after deadly protests
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Kenyan protesters clash with police during recent anti-government demonstrations. President Ruto has ordered firm action against what he calls "anarchy."
Kenyan President Defends Police Force Amid Rising Death Toll from Protests
Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday firmly defended the actions of security forces during recent anti-government demonstrations, stating that the country would not be allowed to descend into “anarchy” under the guise of peaceful protest.
His remarks followed weeks of nationwide unrest triggered by the death of a popular blogger in police custody and a string of incidents involving police brutality. At least 50 people have been killed in two separate waves of protests in the last two weeks, with over 100 injured and 500 arrested, according to local reports.
“Enough Is Enough,” Says Ruto
In a defiant televised speech, Ruto insisted that public disorder would not be tolerated. “You can call me whatever names you want to call me, but I will make sure there is peace and stability in Kenya, by all means,” he declared.
The president specifically ordered police to “shoot in the leg” those found looting or destroying businesses, a controversial directive that sparked concern among rights groups. Ruto emphasized that those behind the chaos were not ordinary citizens but political rivals intent on destabilizing his government.
“This country will not be destroyed by a few people who are impatient and who want to have a change of government using unconstitutional means,” he said. “It is not going to happen.”
Mounting Death Toll and Public Outrage
The unrest stems from mounting frustration over governance, corruption, and state violence. Protests intensified following the death of a blogger in police custody, allegedly after he accused senior officers of corruption on social media.
Public outrage surged again when a police officer was filmed shooting a civilian at close range during one of the protests. These incidents have revived memories of past police crackdowns and deepened mistrust in law enforcement.
On June 25, the protests coincided with the anniversary of 2023’s massive anti-tax demonstrations. Large crowds gathered again across Nairobi and in at least 17 out of Kenya’s 47 counties.
Despite repeated calls for calm, clashes between police and demonstrators erupted, particularly around roadblocks set up in the capital. Civil society groups and international observers have condemned what they describe as the excessive use of force.
UN, Human Rights Groups Raise Alarm
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, called on the Kenyan government to “urgently address the root causes” of the unrest. Türk emphasized that citizens have the right to express their grievances without fear of violence.
Local and international human rights organizations have also called for accountability and restraint. In response to the public outcry, five police officers were recently charged in court, including in connection with the blogger’s death and the high-profile shooting incident.
Deputy Police Inspector General Eliud Langat, who reportedly filed the complaint against the deceased blogger, has stepped down from his role pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.
Political Tensions Boil Over
Ruto’s comments suggest growing friction between his administration and the opposition, whom he accuses of exploiting unrest for political gain. While civil society continues to urge nonviolent dialogue, the administration has instead doubled down on security enforcement.
Many Kenyans, however, feel their concerns over corruption, rising costs of living, and state violence are being ignored. As one protester told local media: “We are not thugs. We are just tired of being ignored and brutalized.”
The weeks ahead may prove critical for Kenya’s stability. Whether the government will respond with reform or further repression remains to be seen.
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