President William Ruto addressed the nation on Tuesday evening following a day of unprecedented violence that marred protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
The President condemned the events, calling them a "treasonous attack" on Kenya's democracy and rule of law.
"What began as a legitimate expression of democratic rights was infiltrated by a group of organized criminals," President Ruto declared.
"This resulted in the tragic loss of lives, destruction of property, and desecration of our national institutions."
The protests, initially peaceful, escalated dramatically when demonstrators stormed the National Assembly.
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Clashes with security forces ensued, leaving at least 13 people dead and several injured.
The President vowed to ensure such an event never happens again.
"I assure the nation that the government has mobilized all resources at its disposal to prevent a similar situation from recurring," President Ruto affirmed.
He commended security forces for their response and directed national security organs to "thwart any attempt by dangerous criminals to undermine the country's security and stability."
Ruto acknowledged the legitimate concerns of young people who initiated the protests.
"I thank the young people for helping us organize our democratic discourse," he stated.
He promised that the conversation the protestors have begun around pertinent national issues will continue to inform Government policies and governance decisions.
However, the President emphasized the need for respectful discourse.
"Our national conversation must be conducted within the framework of the Constitution, respecting the rule of law and our institutions," he asserted.
He expressed his deep regret claiming that dangerous people hijacked this crucial conversation, causing immense loss.
President Ruto vowed to bring those supposedly responsible to justice.
"The planners, financiers, and perpetrators of violence and anarchy will not go scot-free," he declared while pledging to isolate crime from democratic expression and ensure the safety of Kenyans.
The President concluded by reiterating his commitment to upholding the Constitution and maintaining national security.
"I am bound by my constitutional mandate to defend Kenya," he concluded.
"The government will treat every threat to national security as an existential danger to our Republic. We shall provide a full, effective, and expected response to these treasonous events."
The nation now awaits further details on the government's response and the fate of the Finance Bill 2024, which remains a source of deep public discontent.
