President William Ruto has warned police officers against extrajudicial killings of anti-government protesters, while also emphasising that everyone must follow the law and that no one will be allowed to commit crimes with impunity in the country.
Speaking during his tour of Murang’a County on Friday, the President reiterated that his government would deal with lawbreakers in the security forces as well as the general public in relation to the ongoing opposition-led protests.
He referred to his promise made after taking the oath of office, in which he pledged to eradicate impunity and uphold the rule of law adding that he will bring stability to the country.
The Head of State went on to say that no one will be allowed to cause mayhem, anarchy, or property destruction and get away with it.
“Hatutaruhusu askari kuvunja sheria na kuua watu kiholela. The same way we said we’ll get rid of extrajudicial killings is the same way we are committed to ensuring there is no impunity. You cannot destroy property, cause mayhem and anarchy and get away with it…you will not!” President Ruto warned.
“We are asking our law enforcement officers to be thorough, firm and I want to commend our security agencies for being professional in how they have dealt with these people. Criminals must be dealt with firmly, decisively and make sure that everybody respects the rule of law.”
While defending security officers accused of using excessive force against demonstrators, the President stated that they are only doing their job of maintaining peace and order.
“Nobody will be allowed to go against the law irrespective of who you are, the authority you think you have, or the power you imagine you have,” he said.
As a result, the Head of State reassured residents that the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party-led demonstrations would not derail his economic plan for the country while urging Kenyans to remain peaceful.
“I want to reassure you that the plan we have to transform Kenyan cannot be sabotaged by the opposition. Wale wapizani tunajua kazi yenye watafanya lakini kazi ya kendesha maneneo ya nchi, tumekubaliana,” he said.
“Tutahakikisha Kenya iko salama, sisi ni nchi ya demokrasia, amani, hatutaki fujo, vita because we do not have time to fight…as citizens we want time to work on the economy and grow our country.”
