Raila Slams Ruto for Giving Police Deadly Powers Over Citizens

ODM leader Raila Odinga has strongly condemned President William Ruto and Belgut MP Nelson Koech for endorsing the use of force against protesters, specifically the controversial directive instructing police to shoot looters and attackers in the leg.

In a statement responding to the remarks, Raila said such orders are dangerous and unconstitutional, especially when used to suppress public dissent. He insisted that the state must uphold justice through due process and avoid turning law enforcement into a weapon against citizens.

He stated, “In a protest or any other environment that requires law enforcement, all the above orders — shoot to kill, maim, disorient, or shock citizens — are wrong.” Raila emphasized that empowering police with such powers contradicts the principles of democracy and the protection of human rights.

Raila further warned that the government must choose rule of law and due process over excessive force. He added, “As a country, we must at all times opt for the Rule of Law and due process and reject the temptation to give police illegitimate and deadly powers over citizens, even when the citizens are perceived to have broken the law.”

The remarks come in the wake of President Ruto’s controversial declaration that individuals who attack businesses or police stations during protests should be shot in the leg and then taken to court. The statement has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and civil rights groups, who see it as a recipe for police brutality and extrajudicial actions.

Odinga’s reaction reflects growing concerns over rising state aggression against demonstrators, especially youth-led protests that have rocked the country in recent weeks. These protests, which have been marked by violence, looting, and confrontations with law enforcement, have resulted in numerous deaths, injuries, and widespread reports of excessive force used by security agencies.

As public pressure mounts, Raila’s statement calls for constitutional adherence and accountability, urging the government to rely on legal frameworks and due process rather than intimidation and violence to maintain order.