Ruto Appeals for Peaceful Protests, Calls for Unity Amid Political Strains
Dabaso, Kilifi County – President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to uphold peace and abide by the law, as nationwide tensions continue to rise. Speaking at the funeral of Gideon Baya Mung’aro Senior the father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro Ruto addressed growing political unrest, calling for responsible leadership and lawful demonstrations.
“It is the responsibility of all of us to safeguard peace by engaging in activities that do not jeopardize our stability,” Ruto said.
The President stressed that protests must respect the Constitution and avoid harm.
“Those engaging in demonstrations should ensure they demonstrate peacefully and should not destroy life or property,” he added.
Ruto warned against tribal politics and urged leaders to focus on development over division.
“We may have different opinions, but as leaders, we must unite for the prosperity of the nation,” he said. “Unity among leaders is critical for the transformation of the country.”
During the event in Dabaso, Ruto announced a plan to install an electric fence around Tsavo East National Park. The move is aimed at stopping frequent elephant invasions that have disrupted farming and settlements in Kilifi County. He called the fence a permanent solution to the issue.
On land reform, the President said the government is addressing long-standing land disputes at the Coast. He confirmed that 40,000 title deeds have been prepared for Kilifi County residents.
“We are making progress in addressing the historical land issues in the region and eradicating the squatter problem,” Ruto said.
He linked these efforts to the country’s improving economy and broader development goals.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who also attended the funeral, backed Ruto’s call for peace but warned against political intimidation and ethnic division.
“Some leaders are engaging in politics of shares and division, threatening to remove others from office,” Odinga said. “It is Kenyans who vote out leaders, not an individual.”
Odinga also urged protesters to remain peaceful and to avoid destruction of property during demonstrations.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi praised Ruto’s development push, especially in the coastal region, which he said had been neglected by past administrations.
“The projects being initiated, not only at the Coast but also across the country, touch the lives of ordinary Kenyans,” Kingi said.
He dismissed criticism of Ruto’s policies, describing it as a response to strong leadership.
“You are being resisted because you are a strong leader. No weak person can be contested,” Kingi told Ruto. “The same critics will soon come and praise what you are currently doing.”
Kingi added that coastal leaders would support Ruto’s reelection bid in 2027.
Also present at the funeral were Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho and Salim Mvurya, Governors Abdulswamad Nassir, Issa Timamy, Gladys Wanga, Dhadho Godhana, Andrew Mwadime, and multiple members of Parliament.
Ruto closed his remarks by commending Odinga for joining him in efforts to unite the country.
“I thank my brother Raila Odinga for accepting to work with me in uniting our country for prosperity,” he said. “Time for elections is over and it’s an opportunity to build the country.”
As tensions simmer nationwide, Ruto’s message aimed to refocus leaders and citizens on peace, lawfulness, and shared progress.
