President William Ruto has branded yesterday’s violent protests as an unprecedented attack on the nation’s democracy, labeling the acts of vandalism and violence as “treasonous” and vowing to deploy all necessary resources to prevent such incidents in the future.
In an address to the nation, President Ruto decried the infiltration of what began as lawful demonstrations by “organized criminals,” which led to significant loss of life, destruction of property, and desecration of national symbols. “Today’s events mark a critical turning point on how we respond to grave threats to our national security,” he stated.
The protests, initially a legitimate exercise of citizens’ rights to assembly and petition, escalated into chaos, prompting a swift and stern response from the government. President Ruto commended the security forces for their efforts, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining order. “I thank our security officers who were on duty today for applying themselves to the best of their abilities in the defense of Kenya and its people,” he said.
“I have directed all the organs of our national security to deploy measures to thwart any attempt by dangerous criminals to undermine the security and stability of our country,” he declared. He reassured Kenyans that their safety and that of their families and properties remain his utmost priority.
Addressing the youth, Ruto acknowledged their role in fostering a democratic discourse focused on national issues and promised that their voices would continue to influence policy and governance decisions. “I thank you and assure you that the conversation you have begun around pertinent issues of our nation will continue to inform our policy and governance decisions,” he affirmed.
However, Ruto stressed that any national conversation must respect constitutional values, the rule of law, and institutional integrity. He expressed deep regret over the violence and destruction caused by those he described as “dangerous people” hijacking a crucial national conversation.
The President issued a stern warning to those behind the violence, including planners, financiers, and orchestrators of the chaos, indicating that the full force of the security apparatus would be used to restore normalcy and hold the perpetrators accountable.
“It is not in order or even conceivable that criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters can reign terror against the people, their elected representatives, and the institutions established under our Constitution and expect to go scot-free,” Ruto warned.
On Tuesday, June 25, 2024, Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale issued a gazette notice announcing the deployment of military forces to assist police in managing ongoing demonstrations. This decision was made after some protesters reportedly began interfering with critical infrastructure.
Duale stated that the day’s protests had escalated into a security emergency, necessitating intervention by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).
Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to upholding Kenya’s constitutional mandate to protect its citizens and ensure national development. “The government will therefore uphold its constitutional mandate to secure our nation and its development and shall treat every threat to national security and the integrity of our state as an existential danger to our Republic,” he said.
