President William Ruto has ignited a fresh wave of controversy by publicly stating he does not regret anymore .
Instructing police to shoot protestors in the legs during past anti-government demonstrations.
The President’s unwavering defence of the directive, given in an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera.
Draws sharp condemnation from human rights groups and opposition leaders.
Justifying his stance, President Ruto maintained the order was a necessary measure .
To preserve law and order during what he described as “violent and destructive” protests.
“I don’t regret telling the police to shoot protestors in the legs,” he stated firmly.
“When people decide to burn property, attack officers, and endanger lives, the state has a duty to protect innocent citizens.
My directive was clear to disable, not to kill.”
The remarks have reignited a fierce national debate on police use of force.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) swiftly condemned the statement, labelling it
“A reckless justification of brutality” and demanding accountability for protestors who have been maimed or killed.
Opposition figures from the Azimio la Umoja coalition accused the President of normalizing violence against citizens exercising their constitutional right to assemble.
“Such statements undermine democracy and embolden police impunity,” a senior opposition leader asserted.
In his defence, President Ruto argued that police have faced extreme provocation.
“No leader would sit and watch as chaos consumes the nation.
I stand by my words because peace must come with responsibility,” he insisted.
The President’s hardline rhetoric comes as Kenya grapples with ongoing economic grievances and political tension.
Analysts warn that such comments risk further polarizing the nation.
Especially with opposition groups anticipated to stage mass actions in the coming weeks, setting the stage for potential further confrontation.
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