President Ruto Vows to Crush Anarchy and Protect Kenyans Amid Rising Tensions

President William Ruto has taken a firm stand against what he describes as acts of terrorism and anarchy, vowing to protect the lives and property of Kenyans by all means necessary. Speaking during an inspection of affordable housing projects for police officers in Kilimani, Nairobi, the President condemned recent attacks on law enforcement and public infrastructure, signaling a robust response to restore peace and stability across the nation.

The President's remarks come in the wake of violent protests that erupted on June 25, 2025, marking the anniversary of last year's deadly demonstrations against a controversial finance bill. These protests, largely driven by young Kenyans, resulted in significant destruction, with businesses looted, police stations burned, and firearms stolen. Ruto described the unrest as a deliberate attempt to destabilize the country, accusing certain politicians of inciting youth to engage in violence for political gain. He labeled attacks on police officers and security installations as a declaration of war against the Republic of Kenya, emphasizing that such actions would no longer be tolerated.

"I have tolerated enough," Ruto declared, addressing those responsible for the chaos. "Anyone who attacks a police officer or invades a police station is declaring war on Kenya, and we will respond firmly." He stressed that the safety of law enforcement is intrinsically linked to the safety of all citizens, warning that a nation where police officers are unsafe cannot guarantee security for its people. The President pledged to deploy every legal measure to safeguard lives, businesses, and public institutions, asserting that his primary duty is to ensure peace and stability.

Ruto also criticized politicians he accused of misleading the youth and attempting to force regime change through unconstitutional means. He challenged them to present their policies and compete in the 2027 elections rather than resorting to violence. "If you have ambitions, prepare your policies and meet me in 2027. There is no shortcut, no backdoor," he said, dismissing calls for his resignation as lacking a clear and lawful approach. The President urged Kenyans to focus on constructive dialogue and development, warning that continued unrest risks destroying the nation.

The June 25 protests, which saw significant violence in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisii, and Eldoret, left a trail of devastation. According to reports, at least 16 people were killed, over 400 were injured, and more than 300 police officers sustained injuries, some severe. Nine police stations were attacked, with five set ablaze, and 88 police vehicles were destroyed alongside numerous private and government vehicles. Ruto highlighted the economic toll, noting that businesses built over decades were reduced to ashes, leaving thousands jobless overnight. He described the protests as calculated chaos and economic sabotage, vowing that those responsible would face justice.

In response to the violence, Ruto directed security agencies to take swift action to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. He emphasized that his administration would not allow criminals hiding behind the guise of protests to destabilize the country. The President also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting law enforcement, promising to secure police officers and their families as they carry out their duties. During a closed-door meeting with top security officials on June 28, 2025, he reiterated that the government would overhaul its approach to security to ensure peace is restored nationwide.

The protests have sparked widespread debate, with some Kenyans criticizing Ruto's hardline stance as prioritizing state power over citizens' rights. Others, including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, have supported the President's call for calm, urging the youth to give the administration time to address their concerns. Kingi emphasized the need for constructive dialogue, cautioning that continued violence would only harm the nation. Meanwhile, opposition leaders have called for police reforms and compensation for victims of protest-related violence, highlighting the need for accountability and justice.

As tensions remain high, Ruto's administration faces the challenge of balancing security measures with addressing the underlying grievances fueling public discontent. The President has acknowledged the constitutional right to peaceful protest but maintained that the recent unrest was far from peaceful. He urged Kenyans to unite for the sake of national progress, warning that Kenya risks losing its stability if destructive protests continue. "We have no other country to run to," Ruto said, calling for collective responsibility to protect the nation's future.