President William Ruto speaking in Busia on July 26, 2026 / PCS
President William Ruto has said individuals who initially took part in anti-government demonstrations have graduated from protesters to goons, vowing that the government will firmly deal with anyone involved in crime and violence.
Ruto said the country had previously experienced an increase in crime, but there had been disagreements over how to respond to those responsible.
"We had a small problem earlier when crime issues increased and we did not agree on how to tackle the crime as a nation because sometimes we used to defend those who were hurting people and destroying property. We could say that they should not be touched because they are our children," he said.
"But now we have seen the repercussions because they have now graduated from protesters to goons. They are bringing chaos everywhere."
The President said the government would not allow criminality to flourish under the guise of protests.
"We have agreed to discipline all the goons, and no one will be allowed to propagate crime and disrupt peace in our country," he said.
Ruto said peace remains non-negotiable and assured Kenyans that the country would have peaceful elections next year.
The President said his administration would do everything possible to safeguard stability before and after the elections.
"I agree that peace is not negotiable. All of us, irrespective of who we are, our persuasion, our political leaning and whatever it is that we believe in, we must have a peaceful nation," Ruto said.
"I want to assure you as the people of Kenya that we will have peaceful elections next year because elections come and go, but this nation must remain firm, united and stable. We shall do everything possible to ensure that this nation is stable."
At the same time, Ruto said every political leader should be allowed to present their agenda to Kenyans without intimidation, provided they do so peacefully.
"Every leader should be given a chance to give their opinion. Those who have an agenda or plan should be given an opportunity to explain it to Kenyans. Even those who have nothing should be given a chance to speak, but all of us must ensure that we are peaceful. That is what we must do, that is going to be the position of Kenya that I lead, that is our commitment," he said.
The President was attending the consecration and enthronement of the Ven. Dr. Vitalis Job Ekuru as the fourth Bishop of the ACK Diocese of Katakwa, where he also congratulated the bishop on his appointment and wished him wisdom and strength in his ministry.
