NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has directed police officers to shoot and incapacitate individuals found looting or committing arson during protests, rather than using lethal force.
Speaking on Wednesday during the launch of a police housing project in Nairobi’s Kilimani area, Ruto said the use of force must now target legs, not lives.
“Anyone who burns down someone else’s business and property—let them be shot in the leg. Let them go to the hospital on their way to court,” he said. “Don’t kill them, but break their legs. Destroying people’s property is wrong.”
Ruto said the country will no longer tolerate the destruction of public and private property in the name of protest, adding that political leaders who allegedly finance such violence are being tracked.
“It is leaders financing youth to carry out those acts, and we are coming after you,” he warned.
“Terrorism Will Be Met With Force”
Ruto also likened attacks on police officers and stations to terrorism, referencing the violent events of June 25 that saw several police stations stormed and torched.
“Those who attack our police or security installations are declaring war. It is terrorism, and we are going to deal with you firmly,” he said. “We cannot have a nation run by terror or governed by violence. Not under my watch.”
His remarks come amid growing national unrest, with youth-led demonstrations erupting across Kenya over the last few weeks—initially sparked by opposition to the now-withdrawn 2024 Finance Bill and now fuelled by broader frustrations with the cost of living, governance, and youth unemployment.
Death Toll Rises as Rights Groups Decry Force
According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least 31 people were killed and over 100 injured during the July 7 “Saba Saba” protests alone, with security forces accused of using live ammunition and disproportionate force.
Amnesty International Kenya reported at least 16 deaths during the June 25 protests, and said nine police stations were attacked, with five set ablaze. County offices, court buildings, and official vehicles were also vandalised.
Several human rights organisations have accused authorities of unleashing armed gangs to disrupt protests, beat up demonstrators, and loot businesses—further muddying the distinction between criminal activity and lawful dissent.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen echoed the President’s stance last month, urging police to shoot anyone attempting to breach security installations.
“Anyone who gets near a police station—shoot them. Why should someone trying to steal firearms be spared? Firearms are not doughnuts!” Murkomen said.
