KENYA: President Ruto Advocates For Non-Lethal Measures Against Violent Protesters

By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

In a recent address during the inauguration of a police housing project in Nairobi’s Kilimani area, President William Ruto instructed police forces to shoot looters and vandals in the leg instead of using lethal force.

He emphasized that individuals engaged in destructive activities should be incapacitated while avoiding deadly outcomes.

“If someone is found burning down businesses, let them be shot in the leg and taken to the hospital on their way to court. Destroying property is unacceptable,” he stated.

Ruto also issued a strong warning to political leaders whom he accused of inciting violence among the youth, declaring, “We are coming after you. It is those leaders financing youth to carry out these acts.”

The President further categorized assaults on police officers and police stations during protests, such as those on June 25, as acts of terrorism. He asserted, “Attacking our police and security infrastructure is tantamount to declaring war. We must not allow our nation to be governed by terror and violence under my leadership.”

The frequency of protests in Kenya has surged recently, fueled by dissatisfaction with Ruto’s administration owing to the soaring cost of living and intensified crackdowns on dissenters.

These protests have led to numerous fatalities, injuries, and instances of abductions, drawing condemnation from critics who allege police brutality and the inappropriate use of live ammunition against peaceful demonstrators.

Concerns have also arisen regarding the involvement of armed youth groups, referred to as ‘goons,’ who have allegedly attacked protesters and vandalized businesses.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported that recent demonstrations resulted in 31 fatalities and 107 injuries.

Moreover, vandalism incidents across multiple counties have worsened the situation, with Amnesty International noting that more than 16 people were killed during the June protests, primarily at the hands of law enforcement.

Ruto’s remarks echo those of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who previously instructed police to shoot anyone approaching police stations, asserting that such measures were necessary to protect against potential theft of firearms.