- President Ruto says any attempt to oust him before 2027 will be met with full state force.
- Blames unnamed political actors for inciting violent protests to destabilise his government.
- Warns that attacks on police stations amount to a declaration of war.
- Civil society raises alarm over police brutality and rising suppression.
- Tensions continue as Kenya heads toward the 2027 General Election.
President William Ruto has issued a blunt warning to what he termed “forces plotting to overthrow him”, accusing them of seeking unconstitutional ways to topple his government before 2027.
While addressing police officers during the commissioning of new housing units at Kilimani Police Station, Ruto said the government will not sit back and watch violent elements attempt to derail Kenya’s democratic system.
“Let those people trying to lecture us know this: anyone attempting to change this administration through violence or illegal means before 2027, let them try,” Ruto declared.
“This country is a democracy. Power is earned through the ballot, not through bloodshed.”
Ruto’s remarks come after nationwide protests erupted beginning June 12, driven by discontent over the controversial Finance Bill, worsening living conditions, and alleged police brutality. The demonstrations, mostly led by youth and civil activists, have turned deadly in several regions.
Police stations have been torched, businesses vandalised, and over 30 people killed, according to human rights groups.
A visibly agitated Ruto questioned why his presidency has faced such fierce opposition compared to his predecessors.
“They compare me to Moi, Kibaki, and Uhuru. All were presidents. Why is there chaos now during my term? That nonsense must stop,” he said.
He added that anyone attacking public offices or police facilities is essentially declaring war, and the government will treat such actions as acts of hostility.
“Anyone attacking a police station is declaring war. We won’t entertain that.”
The president further claimed that the unrest is being sponsored by unnamed political leaders, promising that the government will go after those funding and organising chaos.
“We’re tracking those funding these activities. There will be arrests. Enough is enough.”
Ruto’s speech marks a sharp tone shift, signalling a government increasingly intolerant of opposition and civil protests. Human rights organisations and opposition figures are warning that Kenya is drifting into authoritarianism, citing concerns over extrajudicial killings, abductions, and shrinking civic space.
As public anger simmers and 2027 approaches, Ruto’s no-nonsense warning sets the stage for what could become one of Kenya’s most politically charged pre-election periods in recent history.
