Amnesty International calls Ruto’s comments unlawful and provocative
President William Ruto is under sharp criticism from Amnesty International after saying police should shoot violent protesters in the leg. His remarks followed the deadly wave of anti-government demonstrations that have rocked the country, particularly led by young Kenyans.
The protests turned bloody last week, leaving at least 38 people dead — the highest toll since the demonstrations began. Ruto’s comment, seen as endorsing violence, has drawn both local and international condemnation.
Amnesty International Kenya boss Irungu Houghton called the president’s remarks unlawful and provocative. He warned that encouraging police to use force in this way risks fuelling more violence between officers, protesters, and even armed civilians.
“It is extremely dangerous for politicians to instruct police on how to manage protests,” said Houghton.
A fresh report by the Police Reforms Working Group, a coalition of civil society organisations including Amnesty, paints a grim picture. It details extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests, and the use of live bullets on unarmed civilians.
The findings show over 500 injuries and economic losses exceeding KSh1.1 billion since the protests started. In addition, about 500 people have been arrested, some on terrorism-related charges.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen responded by promising investigations into police conduct. He assured the public that new guidelines on use of force and firearms would be published by Friday, as the government moves to ease tension.
