NAIROBI, Kenya – In a joint broadcasted interview on national televisions, President William Ruto pledged that action would be taken against any police officers who exceed their legal authority.
This comes in the wake of a series of major protests across Kenya, where accusations of police brutality have become a focal point of public outrage.
“Any killer cop who went beyond what is provided in the law, action will be taken against them,” Ruto asserted.
He emphasized that police officers, even when in plainclothes, can identify themselves and must adhere strictly to legal standards.
“Any police officer who does anything beyond the provisions of the law knows the consequences just as any citizen who participates in actions outside the law,” he said.
Despite Ruto’s assurances, the response on social media was overwhelmingly skeptical.
Kenyans expressed doubt about his commitment to the rule of law, citing numerous instances where police have been accused of abducting, arresting, and tear gassing peaceful protestors.
Kenyans on social media have since identified several cops captured on video cameras using excessive force, but none has been arrested or questioned.
The protests that started due to an already rejected Financial Bill 2024 has left more than 20 dead across Kenya- most of them having been shot by police.
The President’s remarks followed a week of intense protests against the contentious Bill.
Demonstrators, largely Gen Z activists, have taken to the streets in cities across the country, demanding the bill’s rejection.
The police response has been heavy-handed, with reports of excessive force, including live ammunition and mass arrests.
“The police have done the best they could have… Any excesses to be dealt with,” Ruto said, defending the police’s actions while simultaneously promising accountability for any misconduct.
This dual message has done little to assuage the anger and mistrust among protestors and human rights organizations.
Social media erupted with criticism following Ruto’s interview.
Many users highlighted the contradictions in his statements, pointing to documented cases of police abuses that have yet to see any meaningful investigation or consequences.
Hashtags like #RutoMustGo has been trending, amplifying the voices of those demanding justice and transparency.
“The President’s words are empty. We have seen too many people hurt, too many lives disrupted by these unlawful actions,” one Twitter user wrote.
Another commented, “Ruto’s talk of accountability is just that—talk. We need action, not promises.”
Human rights organizations have also weighed in, condemning the government’s use of force and calling for independent investigations into the conduct of the police.
