Ruto Claims Protesters Have ‘Graduated to Goons’, Vows Firm Action Against Criminality

KATAKWA, Kenya- President William Ruto has accused individuals who initially participated in anti-government demonstrations of evolving into criminal gangs, saying the government will not tolerate violence, destruction of property or lawlessness under the guise of protests.

Speaking during the consecration and enthronement of the Venerable Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese of Katakwa on Saturday, the President said the country had witnessed a rise in criminal activity linked to violent demonstrations, adding that the government would act decisively to restore order.

“We had a small problem earlier when crime issues increased and we did not agree on how to tackle the crime as a nation because sometimes we used to defend those who were hurting people and destroying property. We could say that they should not be touched because they are our children,” Ruto said.

“But now we have seen the repercussions because they have now graduated from protesters to goons. They are bringing chaos everywhere.”

The President maintained that while peaceful demonstrations and political expression remain legitimate, criminal acts committed during protests would not be tolerated.

“We have agreed to discipline all the goons, and no one will be allowed to propagate crime and disrupt peace in our country,” he said.

The President made the allegations days after plainclothes security officers were accused of attacking journalists and civilians during the Ol Kalou by-election, with witnesses reporting violent confrontations at several polling stations.

Two people were killed during the incidents.

The officers, some operating in unmarked vehicles, were accused of assaulting members of the media, confiscating equipment and intimidating those covering the election.

Several journalists sustained injuries after being confronted while documenting events on the ground.

The incidents sparked calls for investigations into the conduct of the officers and accountability for those involved. No action has been taken so far against those identified by both locals and the media.

On Sunday, President Ruto stressed that maintaining peace and stability remained a top priority for his administration, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.

He assured Kenyans that the government would take all necessary measures to guarantee peaceful elections and safeguard national unity before, during and after the polls.

“I agree that peace is not negotiable. All of us, irrespective of who we are, our persuasion, our political leaning and whatever it is that we believe in, we must have a peaceful nation,” the President said.

“I want to assure you as the people of Kenya that we will have peaceful elections next year because elections come and go, but this nation must remain firm, united and stable. We shall do everything possible to ensure that this nation is stable.”

At the same time, Ruto said every political leader should be allowed to freely present their policies and agenda to Kenyans without intimidation, provided political activities are conducted peacefully and within the law.

“Every leader should be given a chance to give their opinion. Those who have an agenda or plan should be given an opportunity to explain it to Kenyans. Even those who have nothing should be given a chance to speak, but all of us must ensure that we are peaceful. That is what we must do, that is going to be the position of Kenya that I lead, that is our commitment,” he said.

During the church service, Ruto also congratulated Bishop Ekuru on his enthronement, expressing confidence that his leadership would strengthen the church’s role in promoting peace, unity and moral values within society.