Kenya’s President Orders Police: Shoot Protesters in the Legs

Kenya’s President William Ruto on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, issued a stark directive to law enforcement authorities amid ongoing anti-government protests, ordering police officers to shoot demonstrators in the legs if they are caught targeting businesses, with the intent of incapacitating but not killing them.

This controversial instruction comes in the wake of a surge in violent demonstrations across Kenya, marked by destruction of property and escalating clashes between protesters and security forces.

The recent unrest has drawn significant condemnation from the United Nations and various human rights organizations.

They accuse Kenyan police of employing excessive and lethal force during their response to the protests.

According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), at least 31 people were killed on Monday during confrontations between protesters and police, while more than 100 others sustained injuries.

Additionally, around 532 individuals were arrested as security forces moved to quell unrest in Nairobi, the capital, and several other major cities.

However, official figures from the Kenya police place the death toll at 11, creating a discrepancy between government and human rights reports.

President Ruto’s blunt order was made public amidst these tensions.

He stated unequivocally: “Anyone caught burning another person’s business or property should be shot in the leg, hospitalised, and later taken to court.

“Don’t kill them, but ensure their legs are broken.” This approach, he said, aims to punish offenders by disabling them without resorting to lethal force.

Ruto also issued a strong warning to his political adversaries, accusing them of instigating the violent protests.

He condemned attempts to remove him from office through “unlawful” means, including sponsoring unrest and promoting chaos on the streets.

The president’s statement signals a hardening stance on dissent and a no-tolerance policy towards those who incite violence or destruction.

The United Nations has expressed grave concern over the escalating violence and the growing death toll.

The UN Secretary-General’s spokesperson condemned the killings and highlighted reports of police officers using lethal ammunition against protesters, which has intensified fears of human rights abuses.

The UN called for restraint from all parties and urged the Kenyan government to investigate the incidents thoroughly to ensure accountability.

Human rights groups have echoed these concerns, documenting cases of excessive use of force by Kenyan security forces during recent protests.

They argue that the crackdown on demonstrators risks undermining democratic freedoms and the right to peaceful assembly.

Several organizations have called on the government to respect international human rights standards and to engage in dialogue with opposition leaders to resolve the crisis.

The recent protests erupted amid widespread dissatisfaction with President Ruto’s administration, with grievances including allegations of corruption, economic hardships, and political marginalization.

The demonstrations have disrupted daily life in Nairobi and other urban centers, with many businesses suffering damage or destruction amid the chaos.

Eyewitnesses and local media have reported scenes of intense clashes, with tear gas, rubber bullets, and live rounds being fired by police to disperse crowds.

Some protesters resorted to setting fire to shops and vehicles, further escalating tensions.

The violence has left communities fearful and deeply divided, as Kenyans grapple with the fallout from the unrest.

In response to the turmoil, security forces have been deployed across hotspots to maintain order, and the government has defended its actions as necessary to protect property and ensure public safety.

However, critics argue that the forceful response risks inflaming the situation further and may erode public trust in law enforcement institutions.

The discrepancy in casualty figures between the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and official police reports have fueled skepticism about transparency and accountability in the government’s handling of the protests.

Calls for independent investigations and international oversight have gained momentum as Kenyans seek answers about the true extent of the violence and loss of life.

As the situation remains volatile, many hope for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and political compromise.

Yet President Ruto’s recent statements suggest a willingness to employ tough measures to suppress unrest, signaling a tense and uncertain road ahead for Kenya.

The international community continues to monitor the developments closely, urging all parties to respect human rights and refrain from actions that could further escalate the conflict.

The coming days will be critical in determining whether Kenya can restore calm and work towards addressing the underlying causes of the protests.

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