President Ruto Defends Protest Crackdown, Citing Threats to National Stability

President William Ruto speaks to regional and county security chiefs, along with National Government Administration Officers, during a high level briefing at State House, Nairobi, on June 28, 2025.

President William Ruto has defended the government's heavy handed response to the recent wave of nationwide protests, describing the demonstrations as a threat to national order and accusing organizers of attempting to destabilize the country under the guise of activism.

Speaking following days of unrest across major towns and cities, the Head of State said that the protests had ceased to be peaceful and were instead “orchestrated acts of lawlessness” aimed at undermining constitutional authority and democratic institutions.

“We will not allow criminals hiding behind activism to burn our country,” the President stated, according to sources close to State House. “We are a country governed by the rule of law, and no amount of provocation will shake our resolve to protect Kenya.”

The President's remarks come as security forces implemented a wide reaching crackdown involving the deployment of police across all 47 counties. Major roads leading into the capital were barricaded, Parliament and State House placed under tight security, and dozens of protestors and alleged organizers arrested.

President William Ruto addresses a packed audience of regional and county security commanders, alongside senior National Government Administration Officers, during a strategic security briefing at State House.

President Ruto also warned that those engaging in what he termed “coordinated anarchy” would face the full force of the law, adding that the government had intelligence indicating the protests were being “sponsored” by individuals keen on sabotaging Kenya’s peace.

Critics, however, argue the government has responded with excessive force. At least 16 people are reported to have been killed many from gunshot wounds while human rights organizations have raised alarm over the detention and disappearance of protestors, including minors. Reports of police brutality, teargas attacks in residential areas, and suppression of media broadcasts have further escalated tensions.

Despite mounting pressure, the President insisted that the security operation would continue, framing it as a necessary step to safeguard national security.

“Democracy does not mean disorder. You cannot attack Parliament, harm police officers, destroy roads, and expect the government to fold its arms,” he added.

As the country grapples with the fallout from the protests, attention is now turning to how the Ruto administration will address growing demands for accountability, especially concerning police conduct and rising public frustration over the economy.