Ruto: Gen-Z did not torch Parliament, criminals infiltrated peaceful protests

Property worth Ksh2.4 billion was destroyed during the Gen-Z led protests against the finance bill, President William Ruto has said.

Speaking during a media roundtable at State House on Sunday, Ruto attributed the extensive damage to criminals who, he claimed, infiltrated what began as peaceful demonstrations.

“There were criminals who infiltrated and caused mayhem. In fact, some of these criminals harmed peaceful protesters. Many protesters lost their phones and were attacked,” he said.

Key government offices, including Parliament, the Office of the Chief Justice, and Governor Johnson Sakaja’s office at City Hall, were among those damaged during the protests.

Ruto stated that investigations are underway to determine how protesters gained access to Parliament and set part of the building on fire.

“The invaders in Parliament went straight for the armoury at the mausoleum and the Sergeant at Arms’ office. How did these criminals know about the armoury? There will be investigations into all these incidents,”

On extrajudicial killings, the President assured that the government would investigate and account for all deaths that occurred during the protests.

“There will be an explanation on each and every death. I am telling every parent, I have kids like they do and I care. When there are issues in town where criminals can take advantage of situations and create a situation where the police have to use rubber bullets and live bullets,” he stated.