President William Ruto has appealed to protesters across the country to uphold peace and act within the law, warning that destruction and violence threaten the very nation they claim to defend.

Speaking in Kilifi County during the burial of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro’s father on Wednesday, Ruto acknowledged the right to protest but stressed that no cause should justify the destruction of property or disturbance of public order.

“Even those with different opinions and even in protests, let us ensure that these protests are peaceful and not about destroying property or disturbing peace,” Ruto said.

His remarks came as Gen Z-led protests swept across multiple towns, marking one year since the deadly June 25, 2024 demonstrations against the Finance Bill. Police were deployed in large numbers, and clashes with protesters were reported in several parts of the country, including Nairobi.

“This is our country, and we have to protect its peace. We must operate within the law,” the President said, adding that Kenyans have no other homeland to fall back on if things fall apart.

He warned against hooliganism, looting, and chaos during protests, saying such actions betray the essence of democratic expression.
“Protests should not be to destroy peace in Kenya. We do not have another country to go to when things go wrong. It is our responsibility to keep our country safe,” he stated.

Ruto used the platform to emphasise national unity, reiterating his commitment to building a stable and inclusive Kenya through a broad-based approach involving leaders from across the political divide.
“Working with other leaders, including Raila Odinga and others, we shall make sure that we unite the country without hate, tribalism or divisions, so that we live together as brothers and sisters,” he said.

The President also encouraged citizens to focus on development and the transformation of lives, promising that his administration would deliver on its election pledges.
“Besides the political differences we may have, let us focus on the plans that will transform the lives of Kenyans. That is what is important—not who or which region gets what,” he said.

He concluded by urging all Kenyans to play their part in preserving peace and building the nation.
“We may have different opinions and strategies, but we must always put the nation first,” he said. “Let us not lose the opportunity to contribute to the building of our country.”