3 Public Moments That Put Ruto’s Presidential Security to the Test

In the world of presidential security, every second counts, and every public appearance is a calculated risk. 

While Kenya's security agencies work tirelessly to protect the Head of State, there have been moments when members of the public have gotten a little too close for comfort.  

This story looks at three documented incidents where President William Ruto’s security detail was visibly put to the test, offering a glimpse into the unpredictable nature of public engagements and the fine line between access and protection.

Shoe Thrown at President Ruto in Migori

One of the clearest moments when President Ruto’s security was put to the test was on May 4, 2025, during a public address in Kehancha, Migori County. 

As the President was speaking to residents about the cost of living, a young man in the crowd unexpectedly hurled a shoe in his direction. The shoe narrowly missed its mark, with Ruto managing to deflect it with his hand. The incident briefly disrupted the event, drawing swift action from his security detail.

Authorities later arrested three youths believed to be involved, one of whom was identified as the individual who threw the shoe.

The others were reportedly heckling and creating a disturbance during the President’s speech. Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen later suggested that the attack may have been politically motivated and possibly planned in advance.

The incident raised serious concerns about how the president’s usually vigilant security detail failed to detect the breach until a shoe nearly struck him, prompting the critical question: What if it had been something far more dangerous?

While no one was injured, the shoe-throwing incident served as a reminder of how quickly public events can turn unpredictable, and why presidential security must always remain a step ahead.

Homa Bay Woman Disrupts Ruto's Convoy

On June 1, 2025, during the Madaraka Day celebrations at Raila Odinga Stadium in Homa Bay, a moment of tension unfolded when a woman attempted to approach President Ruto’s motorcade.

As the convoy was exiting the stadium, the woman tried to break through the tight security to get closer to the President.

Ruto’s security team reacted swiftly, intercepting her before she could get too close. The motorcade briefly paused as several officers restrained the woman and moved her away from the President’s path. 

Though she resisted and tried to return, the security officers managed to isolate her from the crowd and restore order.

President Ruto stayed inside his vehicle throughout the incident, leaving the matter entirely to his security detail, who acted quickly to ensure his safety and allow the motorcade to continue without further interruptions.

Woman Briefly Disrupts Ruto's Speech During Kelvin Kiptum's Burial

On February 23, 2024, during the funeral of marathoner Kelvin Kiptum, a commotion broke out as President Ruto was giving his speech. An unidentified woman disrupted the event by attempting to approach the President, prompting his security team to step in quickly.

President Ruto, noticing the situation, paused his remarks and asked the officers to let the woman sit nearby. However, she appeared uncooperative, and the two officers initially handling her struggled to manage the situation. 

More security personnel eventually intervened and escorted her behind the tent. Her intentions were unclear, but once the disturbance was resolved, the President continued with his address.