Kenya’s President William Ruto on Wednesday broke his silence over the recent wave of anti-government protests that have left dozens dead, vowing to prevent what he described as “anarchy” disguised as peaceful demonstrations.
Addressing the unrest, President Ruto declared “enough is enough” and directed police to take firm action, including shooting looters and arsonists “in the leg,” to protect property and restore order.
Kenya has been gripped by unrest in recent weeks following the death of a popular blogger in police custody—a case that sparked widespread anger and renewed accusations of police brutality. Public outrage intensified when a protester was shot at close range by a police officer during a demonstration. Massive rallies took place on June 25, marking one year since large-scale protests against tax hikes.
On Monday, police set up roadblocks across all main routes into Nairobi’s city center, restricting movement to essential workers. Clashes broke out between protesters and police on the outskirts of the capital and in 17 of Kenya’s 47 counties, resulting in 31 deaths and over 100 injuries. Authorities also arrested more than 500 people.
According to reports, at least 50 people have been killed during two separate waves of protests over the past two weeks.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk on Tuesday called on the Kenyan government to address the root causes of the public grievances.
President Ruto alleged that the protests were politically driven and warned that the destruction of public and private property would not be tolerated.
“You can call me any name, but I will ensure peace and stability in Kenya at all costs,” he said, accusing his political opponents of attempting to destabilize his administration through violent means. “Attacking police stations amounts to a declaration of war,” he added.
Ruto emphasized that leadership in Kenya is determined through democratic elections—not violence.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations have continued to urge restraint by law enforcement during demonstrations. In a recent development, five police officers were charged in connection with the blogger’s death and the shooting of a civilian. Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Langat, who had filed a complaint against the blogger over corruption allegations, has stepped aside pending the outcome of the investigation.
