President William Ruto has condemned the recent demonstrations, witnessed on Wednesday, June 25, terming them a well-calculated move to cause anarchy and destroy the country.

The Head of State, who spoke on Friday afternoon during the World MSME Day in Nairobi, said what transpired on Wednesday was not protests, but hooliganism disguised as peaceful processions.

While expressing his frustrations over the demonstrations, Ruto said he was ready to step down, but only if those opposing his governance showed him their better plan for the nation.

He urged Kenyans who are against his regime to seek change through the ballot in 2027 instead of using inciteful slogans such as 'one term' and 'must go' in rallies and protests.

President William Ruto during his tour of the Mt Kenya region on April 2, 2025.

PCS

"If you persuade us, I can also go and concentrate on farming and help in food security, if you have a better plan, but do not burn the country," President Ruto said.

"If it is Ruto must go, then tell me how you want me to go. What do you mean by Ruto must go? Look for a better plan and convince the people of Kenya.  You cannot replace a plan you don’t like with no plan," he added.

Of much disappointment to the President was the burning of buildings and the looting of businesses, which he said left investments worth billions wiped out in hours.

According to him, the biggest victims of this week's protests were the hard-working traders and entrepreneurs, who woke up early only to find their businesses reduced to ashes. 

Ruto further accused a section of opposition politicians of allegedly inciting youthful Kenyans into demonstrations, warning of dire consequences against the sponsors of the Wednesday protests. 

To ensure justice for those affected by the protests, the President ordered the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to immediately expedite investigations and arrest those involved in the recent destruction and looting of property. 

"The perpetrators of violence, looting, and destruction during the June 25 protests must be identified and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, swiftly and decisively," Ruto ordered.

“I expect the Inspector General of Police and all relevant security agencies to conduct immediate, thorough, and speedy investigations into the violent protests on June 25," he added.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja (right) with NPS Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga during a past briefing on May 9, 2025.

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NPS