Kenya’s President Ruto Declares Zero Tolerance for Protest Violence, Labels Rioters as ‘Terrorists’

Amid escalating anti-government demonstrations across Kenya, President William Ruto has taken a hardline stance, branding violent protesters as “terrorists” and warning that the government will not tolerate efforts to destabilize the country.

In a message posted to his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, President Ruto condemned attacks on civilians, police officers, public infrastructure, and private businesses during recent protests.

“Those who attack Kenyans, police officers, security installations, and businesses are terrorists,” the president declared. “Such criminal acts amount to a declaration of war. We will not allow our country to be destroyed by retrogressive elements seeking shortcuts to power. Enough is enough.”

The remarks come in the wake of deadly protests that have rocked Kenya since June 25. Initially organized to commemorate the nation’s long-standing struggle for democracy, the demonstrations have reportedly spiraled into chaos, leaving at least 16 people dead and scores injured.

Multiple human rights organizations, including the United Nations Human Rights Commission, have condemned the Kenyan government’s handling of the situation. Reports accuse police forces of deploying excessive force using live ammunition, rubber bullets, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse demonstrators.

In response to widespread property destruction, President Ruto reportedly authorized security forces to shoot protesters targeting businesses in the legs, rather than employing lethal force.

“If someone burns another person’s property, shoot them in the leg. Let them be treated in hospital before facing justice in court,” he said during a recent engagement.

This controversial directive has drawn backlash from civil society organizations, who argue it opens the door to police brutality and potential human rights abuses.

While Ruto’s administration continues to justify its tough approach as necessary for national stability, it has also highlighted recent government efforts to strengthen state institutions.

The president recently inspected a 540-unit police housing project in Nairobi’s Dagoretti North, a move the government says reflects its commitment to improving the welfare of security personnel.

Additionally, Ruto signed the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025, as part of efforts to curb illicit financial flows and strengthen financial governance in Kenya.

Despite these developments, public frustration continues to mount over the administration’s handling of protests and its perceived intolerance for dissent.