Kenya: Ruto - No Kenyan Should Lose Life, Liberty or Dignity for Criticising Govt

Nairobi — President William Ruto emphasized on Thursday that no Kenyan should lose their life, liberty or dignity for exercising their constitutional rights, including the freedom to criticize the government, express unpopular views and peacefully demonstrate. Speaking at the 16th Katiba Day Symposium, Ruto underscored that peaceful protest, criticism and dissent are fundamental to a democratic society.

The President highlighted the role of young Kenyans and other citizens who participated in the 2024 Gen Z-led protests, stating that their demands for accountability and better governance should be viewed as expressions of constitutional freedoms, not as attacks on democracy. Ruto cited Article 37 of the Constitution, which grants the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket and present petitions to public authorities in a peaceful and unarmed manner.

While acknowledging the pain caused by the protests, including allegations of unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances and excessive use of lethal force, Ruto stressed the importance of investigating credible allegations of human rights violations independently, thoroughly and transparently, with those responsible held accountable under the law. He emphasized that protecting the right to peaceful protest does not imply tolerating criminal acts during demonstrations.

Ruto urged the State to maintain public order and ensure that violence, destruction of property and other criminal conduct are dealt with according to the law. He argued that the Constitution should be judged by its impact on ordinary Kenyans, its ability to restrain State power, establish checks and balances, and protect fundamental freedoms, as well as provide mechanisms for managing public authority.