Ruto: Politically sponsored violence has no place in Kenya’s democracy

President William Ruto has emphasized that politically sponsored violence will not be accepted in Kenya's democracy. He instructed security forces to take decisive, lawful, and unbiased action against those involved in financing, organizing, inciting, or committing electoral violence. At the groundbreaking ceremony for the National Police College's modernization project in Nyeri County, the President highlighted that no politician is entitled to a personal militia.

Ruto directed law enforcement to not only apprehend individuals committing violence but also to target those who recruit, transport, and finance them. He stressed that politicians cannot intimidate citizens or justify violence for political gain, asserting that the Constitution protects the peaceful assembly, demonstration, and petition rights of every individual.

Furthermore, Ruto warned that the Constitution does not shield arson, looting, assault, intimidation, or property destruction, and it is the police's duty to differentiate between peaceful democratic participation and criminal behavior. The President challenged police officers to maintain security while safeguarding Kenyans' rights and freedoms as the nation prepares for the upcoming general election.

He urged Kenyans to engage in free and peaceful discussions when selecting their leaders, stating that political competition should revolve around ideas, policies, and leadership rather than hired gangs, intimidation, and ethnic mobilization.