3 Controversial Remarks That put President Ruto Under Fire

President William Ruto’s style of communication has often drawn mixed reactions, with some of his public remarks triggering intense criticism and debate. 

In recent months, several of his statements have come under sharp scrutiny, with critics calling them reckless or insensitive.

From provocative warnings to off-the-cuff declarations, these comments have sparked national conversations and put the Head of State under growing public pressure: 

Mambo ni Matatu

In August 2023, while touring Western Kenya, President William Ruto issued a stern warning to corrupt individuals, declaring his administration would not tolerate the embezzlement of public funds.

"Mtu yeyote ambaye anapanga kuiba pesa ya serikali, tafadhali tafuta nchi nyingine. Mimi nimewaambia hawa wakora wote, matapeli na wezi kwamba mambo yao ni matatu; either wahame Kenya, waende jela ama waende Mbinguni," Ruto said.

His remarks drew criticism from then Law Society of Kenya President Eric Theuri, who argued the statement undermined fundamental legal rights, including the presumption of innocence and access to justice.

"This is a chilling statement that constitutes a threat to the right to life, a threat to access to justice and right to seek judicial intervention and a threat to the independence of the judiciary. It explains the recent abductions and sends a strong signal of the return of extra-judicial interventions," Theuri stated.

Azimio la Umoja–One Kenya coalition also condemned the remarks. In a statement read by Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, the coalition accused the President of intimidating investors with opposing political views.

"It is quite disturbing to hear a whole President threatening investors in Kenya by claiming that they will be arrested, deported or taken to heaven... Does it mean that if your political views differ with the President then you risk falling short of your rights?" Madzayo posed.

Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka echoed the concern, urging the President to respect due process and allow the law to take its course.

Sword remarks

During a December 2023 event in Kisii, President Ruto referenced the ceremonial sword handed to him by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, symbolising authority; declaring he would use it to deal with those opposing government initiatives like the affordable housing project.

"Si mnajua nilipewa sword. Kwani mnafikiri hiyo sword ni ya kukata mboga? Si ni ya kufyeka wakora hapa? Nitawafyeka kabisa, Kenya itasonga mbele," he said.

The remarks sparked public outrage. Then LSK President Eric Theuri reminded the President that the sword represents a duty to protect, not punish.

“Alongside the sword, the President was given the Constitution. The sword is intended to protect & uphold the Constitution & is not an instrument of oppression... The Constitution of Kenya is our sword & we will swing it against impunity,” Theuri said, reaffirming lawyers' commitment to defending the rule of law.

Rarieda MP Otiende Amollo also criticised Ruto’s remarks, warning that the threat extended beyond litigants and lawyers to the courts themselves.

“So, overlooked in Bunge, and now threatened with beheading for litigating the legality of the Housing Tax! This threat is not just to the parties and lawyers, but it’s directed at the Courts on a pending case! This is how far we’ve sunk!” he posted.

Shoot them in the legs

On July 9, President William Ruto directed police officers to shoot in the legs anyone caught torching or destroying businesses, saying such acts must be stopped decisively.

"Someone who goes to burn another person's business; someone who takes fire and goes to destroy another person’s livelihood should be shot in the legs, taken to the hospital, and then taken to court,” Ruto said.

"They should not be killed, but their legs should be broken so they go to the hospital, and afterward they should be taken to court... Police should not shoot and kill ordinary citizens. But criminals, someone who has made it their mission to destroy another person’s business, should be dealt with," he added.

The remarks drew sharp criticism. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused Ruto of being inhumane and threatened to escalate the matter to the International Criminal Court.

“You have even gone further to add insult to injury by directing them to shoot innocent Kenyans in the legs. You could not even send condolences to the dead. You lack feelings and humanity. We shall report you not to the Kenyan police but the International Criminal Court, an address you are familiar with,” Gachagua said.

ODM leader Raila Odinga also condemned the directive, warning it marked a dangerous drift from constitutional governance.

“In a protest or any other environment that requires law enforcement, all the above orders; shoot to kill, maim, disorient or shock citizens are wrong,” Raila stated.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, and former Attorney General Justin Muturi joined calls for Ruto’s resignation or impeachment over the remarks.