President Ruto Orders Police to Shoot Looters’ Legs as Kenya Protests Escalate
Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered police to shoot looters in the legs during ongoing nationwide protests, sparking condemnation from human rights groups and opposition leaders. The controversial directive comes amid mounting public anger over economic hardship, corruption, and alleged police brutality.
Ama Boah
Kenyan President Orders Police to Shoot Looters in the Legs Amid Ongoing Protests
Nairobi, Kenya — July 10, 2025
Kenya’s President William Ruto has sparked national and international outrage after publicly ordering security forces to shoot looters in the legs during the ongoing anti-government protests that have rocked the country for weeks.
In a televised address late Wednesday evening, President Ruto said the measure was necessary to curb widespread looting and destruction of property that have accompanied the demonstrations. “We cannot allow criminals to hide behind peaceful protests to destroy businesses and livelihoods,” Ruto declared. “Any looter caught should be shot in the legs, we will not kill them, but they must not get away with impunity.”
Unprecedented Use of Force
The protests, initially sparked by controversial tax hikes and high living costs, have morphed into a nationwide movement against what many Kenyans see as government corruption and economic mismanagement. Human rights groups say at least 31 people have died and hundreds more have been injured since the protests intensified last week.
Local and international human rights organizations have condemned the president’s latest directive as an unlawful and dangerous escalation. Amnesty International Kenya called the order “a blatant violation of the right to life and freedom from torture,” urging security forces to disobey any instructions that go against the Constitution.
Police Already Accused of Brutality
Kenya’s police service already faces widespread allegations of excessive force and extrajudicial killings. In several cities, including Nairobi and Kisumu, videos circulating on social media show police firing live rounds at protesters, beating civilians, and using tear gas in residential areas.
Despite the backlash, the government insists it will continue to crack down on what it terms “criminal elements” hijacking peaceful demonstrations. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki said, “We will implement the president’s directive to protect life and property. Looters will face the consequences.”
Opposition Leaders React
Opposition leader Raila Odinga strongly condemned the order, accusing the government of criminalizing dissent and punishing poverty. “Shooting our youth for demanding a better future is unacceptable. We will not be intimidated,” Odinga said in a statement.
Several civil society organizations are planning to challenge the directive in court, arguing it violates both Kenyan law and international human rights conventions.
Mounting Pressure on Ruto
With the protests showing no sign of abating, political analysts warn that the president’s hardline stance may only inflame public anger further. Calls are growing for dialogue and an independent investigation into police conduct during the protests.
As Kenya braces for another wave of demonstrations, the world is watching how the government balances its duty to maintain order with the fundamental rights of its citizens.
