President William Ruto vowed to take unwavering measures against anyone who threatens Kenya’s democracy and national stability. Speaking to residents of Chebango, Sotik in Bomet County on Sunday, Ruto’s warning was aimed at preempting potential disruptions linked to planned protests by Generation Zoomers (GenZ) and Millennials scheduled for Tuesday.
President Ruto, addressing the public after attending a church service for the official opening and dedication of the newly completed Chebango AGC church, emphasized that the government is prepared to act decisively against anarchists and criminal elements. “We are a democratic country, we solve our issues peacefully through democratic means,” Ruto asserted. “What we can’t do as a nation is to abandon democracy for dictatorship, chaos, destruction of property, deaths, and anarchy.”
The President’s comments come in response to a looming wave of demonstrations aimed at pushing for government reforms. The Nairobi police had previously imposed a ban on protests, citing concerns about potential criminal infiltration and the risk of property destruction. Past demonstrations have often spiraled into violence, resulting in fatalities and significant damage.
Ruto’s stern warning highlighted the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards any form of unrest. He emphasized the need for maintaining peace and order, stressing that the administration will not tolerate activities that threaten the safety and stability of the nation. “As a government, we will protect our democracy, we will protect the peace and stability of our nation,” Ruto declared. “We will deal firmly and resolutely with those who are engaged in mayhem, anarchy, causing deaths and destruction of property.”
The President also condemned individuals and groups who exploit legitimate grievances for criminal purposes. “There is no place in our country and in our Constitution for anybody to have a free license to visit mayhem, anarchy, death, and violence on the people of Kenya,” Ruto warned.
Ruto’s address was a direct response to the anticipated protests by GenZ and Millennials, who are rallying for reforms. The government’s stance reflects a broader strategy to balance the right to peaceful demonstration with the need to maintain public order and safety. Past experiences of violence and destruction during protests have heightened concerns about the potential for further unrest.
The President’s message was clear: while the government respects the democratic right to protest, it will not permit actions that undermine national security and public safety. “We have a government to ensure that life and property are safe and secure, and we will do it,” Ruto assured the public.
As Kenya braces for the upcoming demonstrations, President Ruto’s strong stance underscores the administration’s commitment to upholding democratic values while addressing security challenges. The coming days will test the government’s resolve and its ability to manage the delicate balance between democratic freedoms and public order.
