President William Ruto has ordered investigations into deaths, alleged abductions and claims of excessive force linked to the 2024 Gen Z protests and the demonstrations held in 2025, while acknowledging that his administration failed to prevent loss of life during the protests.
Ruto said Kenyans should not have lost their lives while exercising their constitutional rights to express themselves, criticise the government or take part in peaceful demonstrations.
“No Kenyan should lose their life, liberty or dignity merely for criticizing the government, expressing an unpopular opinion or participating in peaceful demonstrations,” President Ruto stated.
The President’s latest remarks represent a notable change in tone from his response during the 2024 protests, when he described some of the demonstrators as “treasonous criminals.”
The comments came at a time when thousands of young Kenyans had taken to the streets to oppose the Finance Bill 2024 and raise concerns about governance, the cost of living and accountability.
The demonstrations later forced the government to withdraw the Finance Bill after sustained public pressure. However, the protests were also marked by deaths, injuries, arrests and allegations of excessive force by security agencies.
The protests returned in different forms in 2025, including demonstrations marking the first anniversary of the 2024 movement. Security agencies again faced accusations over their handling of protesters, with reports of people being shot, arrested and allegedly taken away against their will.
Some families were left searching for relatives who had disappeared during or after the demonstrations, while others demanded answers over the deaths of their loved ones.
President Ruto has now acknowledged the pain caused by the events and said the government has a responsibility to establish what happened.
“I recognise the pain that remains from the events of that period. Some families lost loved ones. Serious allegations were made concerning unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances and the excessive use of lethal force,” President Ruto stated.
He said investigations would be necessary to determine whether violations took place and identify those who may have been responsible. The President stressed that such investigations should be conducted independently and without interference.
“Every credible violation of human rights must be investigated independently, thoroughly and transparently. Where wrongdoing is established, those responsible must be held accountable,” President Ruto highlighted.
The call for investigations comes as questions continue to be raised over the conduct of security officers during the protests.
Human rights organisations, activists and families of victims have previously called for accountability over allegations of unlawful killings, abductions and excessive use of force.
Ruto’s latest position also places greater emphasis on the right of citizens to demonstrate peacefully.
The Constitution protects freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, although authorities have a responsibility to respond when protests become violent or threaten the safety of other people and property.
The President said there should be a clear distinction between peaceful citizens exercising their constitutional rights and individuals who engage in violence or criminal activities.
His remarks are likely to renew attention on unresolved cases from both the 2024 and 2025 demonstrations, particularly those involving people who died, disappeared or suffered injuries.
For families affected by the protests, the investigations could provide an opportunity to establish what happened to their relatives and whether public officials or other individuals should face consequences.
The President maintained that accountability should follow whenever credible evidence establishes wrongdoing. The focus will now be on whether the investigations are carried out in a manner that is independent, transparent and capable of addressing the concerns raised by victims, their families and the wider public.
