President William Ruto’s close aide, Farouk Kibet, has issued a stern warning to opposition leaders, accusing them of orchestrating chaos in a bid to destabilize the government. Speaking during a women’s empowerment forum in Likuyani, Kakamega County, Kibet strongly condemned the anti-government protests held on June 25, which turned violent, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and the burning of police stations.
“For those working day and night to incite Kenyans against President Ruto, we want to tell you that you will not succeed,” Kibet said. He described the demonstrations as politically motivated and reckless, warning that the use of violence to achieve political goals is unacceptable.
Farouk was accompanied by several political leaders including Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei, Soy MP David Kiplagat, and Kesses MP Julius Rutto. The leaders were in the region to promote peace, unity, and women’s empowerment through grassroots forums.
Addressing the recent unrest, Kibet criticized attacks on police officers, particularly by protesters identifying as Gen Z. “You cannot attack a police officer in the name of Gen Z. The habit of having protests that are infiltrated by goons will have to stop,” he said.
The leaders alleged that some opposition figures were funding and coordinating the protests, exploiting the youth for personal political gains. Senator Cherargei accused the opposition of planning tribal clashes and even demanded the arrest and prosecution of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a comment that raised eyebrows within the political landscape.
Senator Cheruiyot supported the tough stance, warning that Kenya should not become a haven for anarchists. “We must uphold law and order. Kenya should not be a country entertaining anarchists,” he said.
The leaders appealed to the youth to resist being used for political violence and instead focus on development. They emphasized that political grievances should be addressed through democratic processes, particularly the ballot box, rather than protests.
The remarks come amid a tense political climate and growing youth unrest, with leaders calling for dialogue, peace, and national cohesion.