Kalonzo Breaks Silence on Ruto’s Shoot-in-the-Leg Order, Makes Strong Statement

Kalonzo Musyoka has maintained that the order directing police to shoot protesters in the leg remains in force, raising fresh questions about the government’s handling of demonstrations and the use of force by security officers.

Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has said the order directing police officers to shoot people in the legs remains in force, renewing his criticism of President William Ruto over the use of force during demonstrations.

In remarks published on Wednesday, November 11, Musyoka said the directive was still subsisting. He was referring to statements made by Ruto in July 2025, when the President said people caught damaging or burning property during protests should be shot in the legs rather than killed.

The remarks have kept attention on police action and the protection of citizens’ rights during demonstrations. Musyoka has previously criticised the directive, arguing that shooting protesters is unlawful and cannot be justified as a way of protecting property.

In July 2025, the Wiper leader said the President’s comments risked encouraging excessive force by security officers. He questioned how officers could reliably shoot someone in the legs and warned that live bullets could lead to deaths.

Ruto made the remarks amid protests and incidents of property destruction. He said people responsible for burning businesses and damaging property should be stopped, while adding that they should not be killed. His comments followed earlier remarks by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen about people approaching police stations.

The issue remains part of wider political debate over the government’s response to protests, police conduct and the right to life. Kenyan law protects peaceful assembly and sets limits on the use of force by law enforcement officers.

Musyoka’s latest comment brings the debate back into focus as political leaders question the government’s handling of demonstrations. It also raises attention on whether the directive has been withdrawn and what guidance police officers are expected to follow when responding to protests.

The government’s position on the directive was not included in the remarks accompanying Musyoka’s comment.

Timberlake feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com