President William Ruto has condemned the violence witnessed during today’s anti-finance bill protests.
In a state address from State House, the President described the day’s events as an “unprecedented attack on Kenya’s democracy, rule of law, and the integrity of its constitutional institutions.”
“Today’s attack on Kenya’s constitutional order has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and desecration of institutions and emblems of our sovereignty,” President Ruto stated.
The head of state assured Kenyans that the government has mobilized all available resources to prevent a recurrence of such violence.
He commended security officers for their efforts in defending the country and directed all national security organs to implement measures to thwart any attempts to undermine security and stability.
“As the people of Kenya go to bed tonight, I give you my assurance that your security, that of your families and property, remains my utmost priority,” assured President Ruto.
The President warned individuals responsible for the violence that the government would take decisive action against them.
“I put on notice the planners, financiers, orchestrators, and arbiters of violence and anarchy that the security infrastructure established to protect our republic and its sovereignty will be deployed to secure the country and restore normalcy,” he said.
While lauding the youth for expressing for their role in organizing a democratic discourse around critical national issues, Ruto stressed the need to distinguish between criminals and peaceful protestors.
“We must isolate crime from democratic expression and separate criminals from people exercising the freedom of expression and divergent opinion. I shall continue a government that is fully committed to maintaining the integrity of our state, promoting the unity of our nation and enhancing the peace and security of all citizens and their livelihoods,” he stated
