Ruto Vows Action Against Riot Criminals, Pushes for Protest Control Law
President William Ruto has ordered the immediate arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in criminal acts during the June 25 riots, including looting, arson, and attacks on police. Speaking from State House Nairobi on Saturday, Ruto met with regional and county security officials to direct the government’s response to the unrest.
“If those behind the riots that led to looting and destruction of people’s property are not arrested and prosecuted, we will be breeding impunity,” Ruto said. He made it clear that protecting the lives and property of citizens is now the top priority for law enforcement agencies.
The president described those who assaulted police officers during the demonstrations as criminals, not protesters. “We cannot have a country where criminals run after our police officers. If a policeman’s life is in danger, how can our families be safe?” he asked.
Ruto said those involved in the violence would be held accountable. He emphasized that the government will defend officers targeted in the riots and continue investing in security to strengthen their response to modern threats, including terrorism and cybercrime.
During the closed-door briefing, Ruto outlined ongoing reforms in the police service, including updated equipment and advanced training. “Only when the police keep our country safe will we have a more secure and stable Kenya where meaningful development occurs,” he stated.
In response to the riots, Ruto called on Parliament to draft legislation to regulate public demonstrations. He stressed that while the Constitution protects the right to assemble, there must be rules in place to preserve peace and protect the public.
“We want a situation where the organizers can present their petitions, state their reasons for the demonstration, and declare where it will be held and at what time,” Ruto said. He proposed the law identify protest organizers and define public safety standards.
The meeting brought together key national security leaders, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, Inspector General Douglas Kanja, Deputy IG Gilbert Masengeli, and DCI Director Mohamed Amin.
Murkomen criticized religious and civil society groups for remaining silent on the violence against police. “When a police officer is attacked or a police station burned, no religious leader, foreign envoy or Law Society of Kenya official speaks,” he said.
Ruto also used the meeting to update officers on key government programs in housing, agriculture, health, and job creation. He confirmed that 20 percent of the affordable housing units will be reserved for members of the security forces.
Later that day, Ruto presided over a ceremony to install the new leadership of the Kenya Defence Forces. He praised the military’s commitment to national safety and urged the new commanders to serve with professionalism and integrity.
“You have our full support,” the president said
