Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has played down the significance of a recent shoe-throwing incident involving President William Ruto, saying it was neither unprecedented nor indicative of a security lapse.
“First of all, let me say that that is not unprecedented,” Murkomen said, referencing a similar moment when a shoe was hurled at former U.S. President George W. Bush. “At least it was not such a harmful thing.”
The CS noted that investigations were still ongoing and suggested caution before condemning any young person involved. “From different angles, it appears the shoe may have been hit unintentionally and flew toward the president,” he said. “We must be careful not to ruin young lives with unnecessary charges or social stigma if there was no malicious intent.”
Murkomen emphasized that the President remains well-protected, with layers of security even when engaging the public from sunroofs or open spaces.
“There’s no threat to the life of the president or deputy president,” he stated, affirming that security protocols are strictly followed, especially in high-risk areas.
He also urged event organizers and the public to cooperate with police when planning public functions.
Murkomen’s remarks appear aimed at calming public anxiety and defusing political tension following the incident, while underscoring the importance of due process.
“Let’s not weaponize this. If the evidence shows there was no intent, the file should be closed,” he said.
