Kenya’s President William Ruto has taken a defiant stance following violent anti-government protests that have left several people dead and dozens injured across the country. In a strong message delivered on national television, the president condemned the violence and firmly backed the actions of security forces, even amid growing criticism from human rights groups and civil society.
Speaking during a security briefing on Wednesday, Ruto declared “enough is enough” as he addressed the escalating unrest. He urged police officers to respond firmly to protesters involved in looting and arson, saying, “If you find someone looting, shoot them in the leg. Not to kill, but to stop them from destroying property and businesses.” His remarks have sparked renewed concern over police brutality, with rights organizations warning of the potential for increased violence and abuse.
The protests, which erupted in response to proposed economic reforms and tax hikes, have swept across major urban centers including Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa. Demonstrators, mostly young people, have voiced frustration over rising living costs and what they describe as a disconnect between government leadership and ordinary citizens. Protesters took to the streets earlier this week, setting vehicles ablaze and storming government offices. In response, police fired tear gas and live ammunition, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries.
While President Ruto praised law enforcement for “acting professionally under very difficult circumstances,” critics argue that his government’s rhetoric and policies are inflaming tensions rather than resolving them. Opposition figures and civil society leaders have called for restraint and dialogue, urging the government to respect citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful protest.
Human rights watchdogs have documented incidents of excessive force by police during previous demonstrations, and many fear the current wave of protests could lead to further casualties unless meaningful reforms are made. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has announced plans to investigate the recent killings and assess the government’s response.
Despite the mounting criticism, Ruto maintains that his administration will not tolerate lawlessness or the destruction of public and private property. As the country grapples with economic hardship and political division, observers say Kenya stands at a crossroads, with the government’s next steps likely to shape its democratic and human rights trajectory for years to come.
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