- A flying shoe aimed at President Ruto forced a brief pause during his speech.
- Security swiftly acted as the crowd became uneasy and moved closer to the podium.
- The President was addressing high living costs when the incident happened.
- Despite the scare, Ruto went on with his scheduled events in Migori County.
- Investigations are still ongoing, and no arrests have been made so far.
A dramatic moment unfolded in Kuria West after a shoe was hurled toward President William Ruto during a public address. In a widely-shared video, the Head of State can be seen quickly using his arm to deflect the shoe, narrowly avoiding a direct hit.
GSU Officers Move In Quickly
Following the surprise act, security officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) quickly surrounded the president, tightening the space around the podium. The crowd had started inching closer, forcing security to increase their presence.
Speech on Cost of Living Interrupted
The president had been speaking about ways to tackle the high cost of living when the commotion broke out. Witnesses say the audience seemed uneasy, with people pressing forward, weakening the ground security line.
Prior Safety Warnings Ignored
Before the incident, there had already been visible concerns about how close the crowd was to the president. Footage shows little space between the podium and the public, with people talking and shifting restlessly during the speech.
Ruto Stays on Course Despite the Chaos
Even after the attempted attack, President Ruto went ahead with his program. He launched the 298-unit Kehancha Affordable Housing Project, joined worshippers for an interdenominational service at Kadika Primary, and opened the Suna West Sub County Office in Piny Oyie.
Comparisons Drawn to Bush Shoe Incident
Many Kenyans likened the moment to the 2008 incident where former U.S. President George W. Bush dodged a shoe thrown by a protester. That event, too, was seen as a political message of dissatisfaction.
Investigations Ongoing, No Arrests Yet
At the time of publishing, no one had been confirmed arrested. However, security officials have confirmed that investigations are in progress. Protective measures around the president have now been enhanced.
