President William Ruto has strongly condemned the nationwide demonstrations held on Wednesday, June 25, labeling them as acts of “hooliganism” rather than peaceful protests. Speaking at the World Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Day event held in Nairobi, the Head of State warned that such actions risk plunging the country into chaos, and challenged his critics to present constructive alternatives to his leadership.
In a bold and candid address, President Ruto expressed both concern and disappointment at the nature of the protests, which saw several parts of the country affected by disruption, vandalism, and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement agencies. He dismissed the protests as a “well-calculated move to cause anarchy and destroy the country.”
“What we saw on Wednesday was not a protest—it was sheer hooliganism disguised as a peaceful procession,” Ruto said.
“If You Have a Better Plan, I’m Ready to Leave” – Ruto’s Direct Challenge to Opponents
In an unexpected turn, the President declared that he would not cling to power at any cost. He emphasized his willingness to step aside if those calling for his resignation—popularized under the slogan “Ruto Must Go”—can convince the public that they have a superior plan to move the country forward.
“If you persuade us, I can also go and concentrate on farming and help in food security,” the President said. “But do not burn the country. If it is ‘Ruto must go,’ then tell me how you want me to go. What do you mean by ‘Ruto must go’? Look for a better plan and convince the people of Kenya.”
The President’s remarks appear to be a direct response to growing public discontent and a series of escalating protests in recent weeks, driven by frustration over rising living costs, taxation policies, and perceived governance failures.
Nationwide Protests Turn Violent
Wednesday’s demonstrations were marked by chaotic scenes in Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, and several other towns. Protesters barricaded roads, lit bonfires, and clashed with police, prompting the government to deploy security forces in large numbers. Reports indicate that several people were injured, while dozens were arrested in connection to acts of violence and vandalism.
Videos shared on social media show property being destroyed, businesses looted, and confrontations between youth and police officers escalating into full-blown street battles in parts of the capital. Despite organizers calling for peaceful protests, the situation quickly deteriorated into unrest.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) controversially ordered local media houses to halt live coverage of the events, a move widely criticized by human rights groups and opposition leaders.
Public Reactions Mixed: Defiance, Support, and Caution
Kenyans have been divided in their reactions to both the protests and the President’s comments. While some citizens feel the demonstrations are justified and reflect genuine suffering under harsh economic conditions, others believe the destruction of public and private property only worsens the situation.
Opposition leaders, including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and activist Boniface Mwangi, have condemned the police crackdown but remained vocal in their criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration. They continue to demand economic reforms and political accountability.
“We Want Dialogue, Not Destruction,” Says Ruto
President Ruto reiterated his commitment to inclusive dialogue but insisted that such engagement must be constructive and peaceful. He said that his administration remains open to criticism, but not when it threatens national unity and public safety.
“We must learn to build rather than destroy. Kenya is bigger than all of us. If we all become destroyers, who will be left to fix things?” Ruto asked.
He urged young people, civil society, and political leaders to reject calls to violence and instead participate in structured public discourse to resolve grievances.
Why the Protests Happened: Background and Context
The demonstrations stemmed from growing economic hardships fueled by high taxation, youth unemployment, and the rising cost of essential goods and services. In recent months, the government has faced backlash over the Finance Bill 2025, which includes controversial tax measures targeting small businesses and digital platforms.
In particular, the youth—many of whom are unemployed or underemployed—have been at the forefront of the protests. Social media platforms like TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook have been used to mobilize support and share updates, bypassing traditional media blackouts.
International Observers Express Concern
Several diplomatic missions, including the European Union, United States, and the United Nations, have issued statements calling for restraint and respect for human rights. They have urged the Kenyan government to uphold constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and free expression while urging protesters to refrain from violence.
Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have also documented cases of alleged police brutality during previous protests, raising concerns about state overreach and the shrinking civic space in the country.
What’s Next for Kenya?
As tension continues to simmer, political analysts warn that Kenya may be entering a critical period of civic unrest if meaningful engagement does not take place soon. Calls for a national dialogue forum are growing, with religious leaders, civil society groups, and some political factions advocating for a mediated solution.
President Ruto’s willingness to entertain the idea of stepping down—contingent on viable alternatives being presented—could be a political gamble or a calculated effort to challenge the opposition to offer more than just criticism.
Conclusion: A Country at a Crossroads
President Ruto’s Friday remarks reflect the gravity of Kenya’s political and economic moment. With the streets restless and institutions under pressure, the call for better governance and responsible opposition has never been louder.
The coming days will be critical in determining whether the nation can de-escalate tensions through dialogue—or whether further unrest will deepen Kenya’s already volatile political landscape.