Kenyan President William Ruto on Wednesday accused his political opponents of orchestrating a campaign to topple his government through violent protests and attacks on police stations, warning such actions would be treated as acts of war.
“This is a democratic country. Leadership will not be changed through violence—only through the ballot,” Ruto said during a visit to Kilimani Police Station in Nairobi, where he was inspecting a housing project for officers.
The remarks came amid nationwide unrest sparked by soaring economic hardship, allegations of police brutality, and calls for the president’s resignation. Protesters have stormed police stations and clashed with security forces in recent days, with videos circulating online showing scenes of widespread chaos.
Ruto, visibly agitated, accused unnamed political figures of sponsoring the unrest. “Those funding these violent demonstrations and looting will be held accountable. We’re not just arresting the thugs—we’re coming for their financiers.”
He warned that any attack on a police station would be considered a direct threat to the state. “That is a declaration of war. It is not acceptable. Enough is enough.”
“I will use whatever means available to protect the people and the stability of our nation,” he added.
The president’s comments come days before the annual Saba Saba protest anniversary, which last year saw at least 31 people killed and over 500 arrested, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights.