Kisii, Kenya – President William Ruto has made a candid acknowledgment of excessive and extrajudicial actions perpetrated by members of the country’s security services, pledging to ensure accountability while safeguarding human rights and public safety.
Speaking during his end-of-year address at the Kisii State Lodge on Tuesday, Ruto highlighted the challenges of balancing individual freedoms with maintaining law and order, promising that due process is underway to address cases of misconduct.
“It cannot be denied that there have been instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions by members of the security services,” Ruto admitted. “At the same time, it must also be acknowledged that due process is underway in appropriate institutions to ensure accountability.”
Balancing Freedoms with Public Safety
Ruto emphasized that while freedoms are fundamental, they cannot supersede public safety and order. “Every freedom has its limits, and public safety and order must always supersede the desire for unchecked liberty,” he noted.
He warned against criminals exploiting constitutional rights to harm others and disrupt societal order. “Our pursuit of rights and freedoms must not compromise our safety nor allow criminals to exploit constitutional rights to harm and destroy others,” Ruto cautioned.
Call for a Moral Revival
In a broader critique, the President decried the erosion of moral values in Kenyan society, linking it to the rise of violent crimes, particularly femicide.
“This tendency to promote a definition of rights and freedoms that undermines democracy and the public interest reflects a broader collapse of our value system,” Ruto stated. “This disregard for moral values, including compassion, responsibility, and decency, contributes to violent crimes, such as femicide, perpetrated by men against women.”
Ruto urged Kenyans to embrace compassion, responsibility, and decency as foundational values essential for individual and societal well-being.
Commitment to Accountability and Democracy
The President reassured Kenyans of his administration’s commitment to upholding both security and human rights, emphasizing the importance of addressing societal violence and moral decay. He warned against exploiting freedoms to the detriment of the collective good.
Ruto concluded by reaffirming his pledge to ensure accountability, protect democratic values, and uphold the rule of law. “Let us remain vigilant in safeguarding public safety and our democratic ideals, as these are the cornerstones of a thriving and secure nation,” he urged.
Background and Context
President Ruto’s remarks come amid increased scrutiny of the country’s security forces following allegations of human rights violations. His admission of excessive actions and emphasis on moral revival signal a shift towards greater transparency and a call for societal introspection.
By addressing both systemic and societal challenges, Ruto aims to navigate Kenya towards a balance of rights, safety, and moral integrity.
