Ruto Stands Firm on ‘Shoot-the-Leg’ Directive Amid Debate Over Police Force and Accountability

President William Ruto has remained unapologetic over his controversial remarks directing police to “shoot the leg” of protestors during demonstrations earlier this year, reigniting debates over the use of force, executive authority, and human rights in Kenya.

Speaking during a televised interview on November 9, 2025, Ruto asserted that his statement was within the law, emphasizing the need to protect lives and property during moments of civil unrest.

“I do not regret those comments at all because the law allows the police to use force when other people’s lives are in danger,” Ruto said. 

He further clarified that he does not possess the legal power to directly order police actions, highlighting the independence of the police service. 

“There is nowhere in the law that allows me to order the police… The police are independent, and there is nowhere in the law where I have the power to direct the police,” he added.

The directive originated on July 9, 2025, amid protests commemorating the historic Saba Saba movement. The demonstrations were partly fueled by economic grievances, including rising costs of living and dissatisfaction with government policies. 

At the time, Ruto warned, “Anyone who picks up petrol to burn someone else’s business or any other person’s property should be shot in the leg, taken to hospital, and then presented in court.” 

He described attacks on police stations and other acts of aggression as tantamount to declaring war on the state, insisting that the government had a constitutional duty to maintain order.

However, human rights groups have strongly condemned the directive. Amnesty International and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights documented at least 63 deaths and over 500 injuries during protests linked to economic unrest in 2024.

Subsequent demonstrations in 2025 resulted in additional casualties, with reports indicating 16 deaths and over 400 injuries, including the tragic death of a 12-year-old girl in Kiambu. 

Human Rights Watch has similarly noted that accountability for protest-related fatalities has been limited, with few prosecutions under the Independent Policing Oversight Authority.

Former Chief Justice David Maraga visited victims at Kenyatta National Hospital and described the directive as “outrageous” and inconsistent with constitutional protections.

“These young men have spent three months in excruciating pain with their lives on hold,” he stated, emphasizing the lasting impact of injuries sustained during the protests. 

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi also criticized the order, describing it as reckless and dismissive of human life. 

According to Muturi, the directive appeared to criminalize protest while weaponizing law enforcement against citizens.

Political leaders have voiced divergent opinions on the matter. The late Raila Odinga condemned the directive, labeling it inconsistent with constitutional rights. 

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua stated in September 2025 that he would rescind Ruto’s order to target protestors’ legs. 

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi called for restraint during demonstrations, underscoring the need for measured responses in moments of public unrest.