Kenya Opposition Leaders Call for President Ruto’s Resignation Over Shooting Remarks

Kenya Opposition Leaders Call for President Ruto’s Resignation Over Shooting Remarks

Kenyan opposition leaders have intensified their demands for President William Ruto’s resignation following his controversial directive for police to shoot looters during protests. The call for resignation comes amid ongoing unrest and the recent funeral of a civilian shot dead by police.

Kenyan Protest

During the burial of Boniface Kariuki, who was killed during a protest on June 17, opposition figure Kalonzo Musyoka condemned the president’s order, describing it as unconstitutional and calling for Ruto to step down or face impeachment.

President Ruto had earlier stated that he would not tolerate what he called “anarchy” disguised as peaceful demonstrations, urging police to use lethal force against those looting or damaging property—reportedly even advocating for police to “break the legs” of protesters.

The protests erupted after the death of blogger Albert Ojwang in police custody last month, which was followed by the fatal shooting of Kariuki, a face mask seller who was shot in the head while walking away from police officers. A court recently charged an officer with Kariuki’s murder, with a plea hearing scheduled for July 28.

The unrest has resulted in the deaths of over 50 people in recent weeks, according to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights. Despite widespread protests, police have maintained a strong presence, especially around Murang’a town, where Kariuki was buried. The ceremony was attended by mourning relatives and community members, with no police officers in uniform present, though riot police remained deployed nearby.

Local leaders, including Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, have called for justice, emphasizing the government’s responsibility in addressing police violence and ensuring accountability for those who have lost loved ones in the protests.

Several officers are currently facing murder charges, including those linked to the deaths of young protesters and the recent killing of Kariuki. The cases highlight ongoing concerns over police conduct amid Kenya’s turbulent protests.