President William Ruto has acknowledged the loss of lives and injuries suffered during the Gen Z-led protests of 2024 and 2025, saying no Kenyan should die or lose their dignity for criticising the government or participating in peaceful demonstrations.
Speaking while reflecting on the protests, Ruto said the loss of life was never justified and recognised the pain left behind by the demonstrations.
No Kenyan should lose their life, liberty or dignity merely for criticising government, expressing an unpopular opinion or participating in peaceful demonstrations,” Ruto said.
The remarks mark a notable shift from the President’s earlier stance during the June 2024 protests, when he described some protesters as treasonous criminals as the government moved to quell demonstrations over the Finance Bill.
The subsequent protests in June 2025 were also met with a tough government response, with police accused of using excessive force against demonstrators.
Rights groups and other observers have reported cases of protesters being shot, allegedly abducted and, in some instances, later found dead during the two waves of demonstrations.
Ruto now says the government recognises the pain caused by the events and insists that credible investigations are necessary to establish what happened and ensure justice for those affected.
The President said investigations into alleged violations of rights should be conducted credibly, paving the way for accountability and justice for victims and their families.
