Kenyan ministers have commended the police for their actions during recent protests, where officers were seen opening live rounds on demonstrators, resulting in about 40 deaths and hundreds of injuries.
In meeting with Mr Ruto at the State House, Nairobi, his cabinet praised the police for being professional while quelling the protests, which they claimed “were infiltrated, hijacked and taken over by criminal and opportunistic political forces.”
“The cabinet was also informed that the security agencies have stabilised the situation and are continuing to monitor the developments,” a statement published on Kenyan government website disclosed.
“The members commended security officers, pointing out that they, on the whole, acted professionally in very difficult circumstances. The cabinet also noted that security agencies did a good job of protecting the country from anarchists,” it added.
This sentiment aligns with President Ruto’s earlier remarks, where he labeled the protests as treasonous and lauded the police for quelling them.
The protests, which began on June 18 against the Finance Bill, had disrupted commercial activities for three consecutive weeks.
The situation escalated as protesters occupied the parliament, defying police efforts to disperse them with teargas, water cannons, and live bullets.
Footage of police firing live rounds at protesters and images of bullet shells and deceased demonstrators have circulated widely, sparking global outrage against President Ruto.
Last Wednesday, he announced the withdrawal of the controversial bill.
Amnesty International has accused Ruto of deploying snipers to shoot protesters and called for his trial at the International Criminal Court.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported 39 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and over 30 enforced disappearances, criticizing the police for using “excessive and disproportionate force” against the protesters.
Migori County Governor Ochillo Ayacko also condemned the police for their brutality, accusing them of shooting fleeing protesters in the back.
In response to criticisms, President Ruto denied any personal responsibility for the bloodshed, asserting in a Sunday night interview that there was no blood on his hands. Meanwhile, Kenyan authorities have declared some anti-Finance Bill protesters wanted as the protests continue into their third week.
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