‘Hatutaruhusu polisi kuua watu kiholela,’ President Ruto says

President William Ruto has cautioned police officers against extrajudicial killings of anti-government protestors, while – on the other hand – also reiterating that everybody must follow the law and no one will be allowed to perpetrate impunity in the country.

Speaking during his tour of Murang'a County on Friday, the President maintained that his government would deal with lawbreakers whether in the security agencies or in the public in regard to the ongoing opposition-led protests.

He referred to his promise after taking the oath of office where he committed to eradicate impunity and ensure the rule of law is upheld, adding that he will bring stability in the country.

The Head of State added that no one will be allowed to cause mayhem, anarchy and destruction of property and get away with it.

“Hatutaruhusu askari kuvunja sheria na kuua watu kiholela. The same way we said we'll get rid of extrajudicial killings is the same way we are committed to ensuring there is no impunity. You cannot destroy property, cause mayhem and anarchy and get away with it…you will not!” President Ruto warned.

“We are asking our law enforcement officers to be thorough, firm and I want to commend our security agencies for being professional in how they have dealt with these people. Criminals must be dealt with firmly, decisively and make sure that everybody respects the rule of law.”

While defending the security officers who have been accused of using excessive force on demonstrators, the President said they’re only doing their work of ensuring there is peace and order.

"Nobody will be allowed to go against the law irrespective of who you are, the authority you think you have, or the power you imagine you have," he said.

The Head of State consequently reassured residents that the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party-led demos would not sabotage his economic plan for the country as he called on Kenyans to remain peaceful.

“I want to reassure you that the plan we have to transform Kenyan cannot be sabotaged by the opposition. Wale wapizani tunajua kazi yenye watafanya lakini kazi ya kendesha maneneo ya nchi, tumekubaliana,” he said.

“Tutahakikisha Kenya iko salama, sisi ni nchi ya demokrasia, amani, hatutaki fujo, vita because we do not have time to fight...as citizens we want time to work on the economy and grow our country.”