NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has come out in defence of law enforcement officers, warning that those who attack police personnel will face severe consequences.
Speaking during a high-level meeting with top security and national administration officials at State House, Nairobi, the president described recent assaults on police officers during Wednesday’s Gen Z-led protests as unacceptable and a threat to the country’s stability.
“We cannot have a country where criminals run after our policemen,” Ruto said. “If a policeman’s life is in danger, how can our families be safe? This trend must change.”
“We Will Stand by Police Officers”
The president affirmed his administration’s unwavering support for members of the security forces, insisting that safeguarding their welfare and operational authority was essential for national peace and development.
“We will stand by every man and woman in uniform and protect them as they discharge their duties. That is how we will have a more secure and stable Kenya where meaningful development occurs,” he stated.
His remarks come just days after nationwide anniversary demonstrations that led to violent clashes between protesters and police in multiple towns.
Some demonstrators accused security forces of excessive brutality, while the government pointed fingers at criminal elements infiltrating the movement.
We cannot have a country where criminals run after our policemen. If a policeman’s life is in danger, then, how can our families be safe?This trend must change. The criminals that attacked our officers and destroyed property in the Wednesday mayhem will be held to account.We
Warning to Violent Protesters
Ruto said investigations were ongoing and pledged that all individuals responsible for attacking officers or damaging public property during the protests would be brought to justice.
“The criminals who attacked our officers and destroyed property in the Wednesday mayhem will be held to account,” the president warned.
Cracks Within Security Ranks
The State House meeting took place amid reports of growing internal dissent within Kenya’s security agencies.
Several serving and retired officers have made rare public statements condemning police brutality and questioning decisions made by the Ministry of Interior during the protests.
This internal unrest has raised concerns about cohesion and trust within the country’s law enforcement apparatus.
Despite the tensions, Ruto urged officers to remain committed to their duty, calling on security leadership to play a bigger role in promoting unity and public confidence.
“Our security officers must not just be enforcers — they must be nation-builders. Your role in protecting our democracy is critical,” he said.
The president’s strong defence of the police follows mounting criticism from civil society, rights groups, and Gen Z protesters, who have accused the state of over-policing and suppressing dissent.
Over 20 people were reportedly killed during the protests, while dozens more were injured or detained.
