Belgut Member of Parliament Nelson Koech has stirred controversy after calling for a shoot-to-kill directive against violent protesters, escalating an already heated national debate on the government’s response to recent demonstrations.
Speaking on Thursday, Koech, who chairs the National Assembly Defence Committee, supported President William Ruto’s earlier directive allowing police to shoot criminals masquerading as protesters but went further, urging officers to shoot to kill. “You cannot have someone coming after your life and you do not want to shoot and kill,” Koech declared, adding that the constitution and Police Act empower officers to use lethal force when their lives or the public’s safety are under threat.
The MP condemned individuals who use protests as a cover for violence, looting, and destruction of property. “Anyone going to a protected area like State House is not an ordinary protester but a criminal who must be dealt with using equal force,” he said. Koech warned that such individuals should be arrested and charged with terrorism or aiding terrorist acts.
His remarks come a day after President Ruto directed police to shoot offenders in the legs rather than kill them, so they could be apprehended and prosecuted. The President emphasized that while peaceful protest is a right, violence and destruction must be firmly addressed. “Police should not shoot citizens to kill, but criminals must be dealt with,” Ruto said.
The calls for increased police force come in the wake of nationwide protests led largely by young Kenyans expressing discontent with government policies, including tax hikes and corruption. Human rights groups have raised concerns about the excessive use of force during demonstrations, with reports of injuries and deaths.
Koech’s statement is expected to spark further debate over the state’s response to civil unrest and the delicate balance between law enforcement and the right to peaceful assembly. While the government insists on maintaining order, critics argue that harsher crackdowns could further alienate the youth and fuel more unrest.
