President Ruto lauds police officers for their efforts during protests

President William Ruto during the Commissioning of Kericho water supply project, Ainamoi, Kericho County. [PCS]

President William Ruto has lauded police officers for their efforts in ensuring peace during the protests.

Ruto was addressing residents of Isiolo town where he is touring to commission roads and issue title deeds.

"I want to congratulate our police officers for ensuring there is peace [in the wake of protests] and making sure offenders are dealt with to avoid destruction of property," said Ruto.

Police have, however, been accused of opening fire at protesters leading to deaths and injuries.

Amnesty International, a non-governmental organisation, has condemned the use of unlawful force against protestors saying at least 30 people have been killed by police since March 2023 when the protests started.

At the same time, President Ruto says Kenyans must protect the country against destruction and economic sabotage.

"We cannot sabotage our economy using violence, destruction of business and property. Kenya is the only place we have to call home and we must protect it by all means," said Ruto.

He added; "We must protect our democracy, we must protect the peace in our country because it is a collective responsibility for all of us."

The opposition is holding a three-day protest against the government that started on Wednesday.

They want the government to repeal a finance law imposing new taxes, and lower the cost of living among other demands.

Yesterday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki said more than 300 protesters were arrested across the country during the protests.

They will be charged with various crimes including looting, malicious damage of property, arson, robbery with violence, and assaulting law enforcement officers among other crimes.

The Cabinet Secretary did not comment on those who had lost their lives or got injured.