Aasai

President William Ruto has made a passionate appeal to Kenyans to maintain peace and uphold the rule of law during the ongoing protests commemorating the first anniversary of the deadly anti-Finance Bill demonstrations of June 2024. Speaking during the burial of Mzee Geoffrey Mung’aro, father to Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, in Kilifi County, Ruto emphasized the importance of peaceful civic engagement and warned against destruction and violence, which could reverse the country’s progress.

The June 25 protests, which are largely being led by young Kenyans—particularly the Gen Z generation—have been organized to honor the victims who lost their lives during last year’s protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024. That wave of demonstrations, which rocked several parts of the country, ended in a tragic loss of over 60 lives and hundreds of injuries, largely blamed on excessive use of force by security agencies.

President Ruto acknowledged the right of citizens to protest and express themselves under the Constitution. However, he warned that demonstrations must not be allowed to devolve into lawlessness and chaos. “We must ensure that the demonstrations we hold are peaceful,” he stated. “The protests should not lead to the destruction of property, because we do not have another country to run to if we ruin ours.”

The Head of State reminded Kenyans that national unity and stability are paramount, even in times of disagreement. He said while it is normal to have different ideas on how the country should be governed or developed, it is essential that such differences be managed through dialogue and respect, not violence and anarchy. “We may differ in our strategies and opinions, but we must always prioritize the well-being of our nation. Let us remain focused on building Kenya together.”

President Ruto also used the occasion to call on political leaders, youth groups, and civil society organizations to lead by example and preach peace. He warned against the infiltration of protests by individuals with ill intentions, including the use of hired goons to cause disruptions or intimidate peaceful demonstrators. His warning followed reports from last week’s protests in Nairobi, where violence erupted after unknown individuals—allegedly paid—attacked demonstrators in the central business district.

This year’s protests have been largely peaceful, with young Kenyans marching across cities carrying national flags, placards, and bottles of water to symbolize peace and nonviolence. However, their peaceful demonstrations have often been met with disproportionate police response, including teargas, arrests, and in some cases, live bullets. Human rights groups have condemned the excessive force used by law enforcement, reigniting debates on police reforms and accountability.

Despite this, Ruto reiterated his government’s commitment to protecting the lives, rights, and freedoms of all Kenyans. He encouraged young people not to lose hope, urging them to continue engaging constructively and within the confines of the law. “Change will not come through chaos, but through resilience, order, and a shared purpose. Let us protect the progress we have made, and continue working toward the Kenya we all dream of.”

As Kenya remembers one of its darkest protest seasons in recent history, the nation faces a test of its democracy, justice system, and leadership. Whether President Ruto’s call for peace will resonate with a generation disillusioned by the slow pace of reforms and a lack of accountability remains uncertain. But his message is clear: the future of Kenya depends on unity, peace, and the collective effort of all its citizens.