President William Ruto presides over the 2026 Katiba Day at KICC, Nairobi on August 27, 2026. Photo/PCS
President William Ruto has acknowledged failures in the government’s handling of the 2024 Gen Z protests and the 2025 anniversary demonstrations, saying no Kenyan should have lost their life during the protests.
President Ruto has directed investigations into deaths, alleged abductions, unlawful arrests and cases of excessive use of force reported during the demonstrations.
The President made the remarks while reflecting on the events that marked one of the most intense confrontations between Kenya’s youth and his administration.
The 2024 Gen Z protests, which began over opposition to the Finance Bill, grew into nationwide demonstrations, with protesters demanding greater government accountability and changes in governance.
Several demonstrators were killed and many others injured during the protests, while security agencies faced accusations of using excessive force.
Ruto Says No Life Should Have Been Lost
Speaking about the events, President Ruto said Kenyans should be free to criticise the government and participate in peaceful demonstrations without losing their lives, liberty or dignity.
“No Kenyan should lose their life, liberty or dignity merely for criticizing the government, expressing an unpopular opinion or participating in peaceful demonstrations,” President Ruto stated.
The remarks represent a significant change in tone from the President’s position during the height of the 2024 protests.
In an address to the nation during the June 2024 demonstrations, Ruto described some protesters as “treasonous criminals” and warned that the government would take firm action against what he termed threats to national security.
2025 Anniversary Protests
The confrontation between protesters and security agencies continued during the June 2025 anniversary demonstrations.
The protests again resulted in injuries and deaths, while allegations emerged of abductions and excessive use of force by security officers.
President Ruto has now acknowledged the pain caused by the events and called for credible investigations into the allegations.
“I recognise the pain that remains from the events of that period. Some families lost loved ones. Serious allegations were made concerning unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances and the excessive use of lethal force,” the President stated.
Calls for Independent Investigations
President Ruto said investigations should be conducted independently and transparently to establish what happened and ensure accountability where wrongdoing is established.
“Every credible violation of human rights must be investigated independently, thoroughly and transparently. Where wrongdoing is established, those responsible must be held accountable,” he said.
The President’s latest position could renew public debate over the government’s response to the Gen Z demonstrations and the actions of security agencies during the protests.
Families of victims and human rights groups have previously called for investigations into deaths, alleged enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests and the use of live ammunition against protesters.
The investigations will be closely watched as the government seeks to address the grievances arising from the protests and rebuild public confidence in the handling of demonstrations and human rights.
