Natalie Nyathi
In a significant escalation of the unrest in Kenya, President William Ruto has ordered police to shoot protesters targeting businesses in the legs, a move that has sparked widespread outrage both in Kenya and internationally. This directive follows violent anti-government protests that led to at least 31 deaths and over 100 injuries on July 7, during demonstrations marking the 35th anniversary of Kenya’s pro-democracy movement.
The protests began in June 2024 due to a proposed tax increase and have since grown into a broader movement demanding government accountability and reform. Many young protesters, frustrated by high unemployment and economic hardship, have taken to the streets. The unrest intensified after the death of a political blogger in police custody last month, increasing public anger over police brutality and corruption.
In a recent speech, President Ruto stated that anyone caught vandalizing property should be shot in the leg, ensuring they are incapacitated but not killed. “They shouldn’t kill the person, but they should hit the legs to break them,” he said. This statement has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and the United Nations, which have condemned the excessive use of force by police.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported a troubling rise in the death toll linked to the protests, highlighting the need for accountability from law enforcement. While police report only 11 fatalities, independent sources suggest the actual number is much higher. The UN has expressed deep concern over the police’s use of “lethal ammunition” against protesters, calling for the Kenyan government to follow international human rights standards.
In defending his directive, Ruto argued that attacks on police and public property are a “declaration of war” against the state. He urged his political rivals to wait for the next general elections in 2027 instead of resorting to violent protests for change. His government claims that the recent unrest is driven by opposition groups trying to destabilize his administration.
Reactions to Ruto’s comments have been largely negative. Many Kenyans see his orders as an endorsement of state-sponsored violence, raising tensions in the country. Opposition leaders have called for a boycott of businesses linked to Ruto’s administration, accusing the government of using armed gangs to suppress dissent during protests.
Additionally, religious and civil rights groups are demanding independent investigations into police actions and the rising violence. The Chief Justice of Kenya has warned that the ongoing protests threaten the country’s democratic foundations.
As Kenya faces these challenges, the president’s directive to shoot protesters in the legs has raised concerns about further violence and repression. The international community is watching closely, urging respect for human rights and a peaceful resolution to the unrest.
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