Political leaders condemn shoe-throwing incident on President Ruto in Migori
Strategic Communications Advisor Fred Okang’o emphasised the need to separate personal political views from respect for national institutions.
Leaders from across Kenya’s political spectrum have voiced strong condemnation over Sunday's incident in which a shoe was thrown at President William Ruto while he addressed residents in the Kehancha area of Migori County.
Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu termed the incident unacceptable, warning that any attack on the Head of State could have far-reaching implications for the nation.
“The President is the symbol of unity for the country—anything happening to him affects the nation in a big way. We pray such an incident does not happen again,” he stated.
"At the same time, the President should consider limiting his frequent car roof appearances and prioritise working from the office, where he can focus on formulating sound policies and overseeing their proper implementation," said Senator Joe Nyutu.
Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi echoed these concerns, cautioning against actions that could compromise the President’s safety.
“While we have political differences, it shouldn’t get to the point that we want to harm the president of the Republic.”MP Anthony Kibagendi during a Citizen TV interview.
“Throwing a shoe at President Ruto was irresponsible. What if the attacker had a real weapon, like a pistol? Ruto could have been taken out.”
A different angle of the viral social media clip captures the moment another person strikes the shoe from behind, sending it flying toward President William Ruto as he addressed residents in Kehancha town, Migori County. pic.twitter.com/v0LIZQ07Vw
— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) May 5, 2025
Strategic Communications Advisor Fred Okang’o emphasised the need to separate personal political views from respect for national institutions.
"I want to remind Kenyans that, even if they don't support Ruto, we must respect the office of the President. Anyone who holds that office comes with authority. It was very unfortunate that a shoe was thrown," said Fred Okang’o.
"Those organising political events must be vigilant going forward. Anything can happen to anyone," added Okang’o.
Belgut MP Nelson Koech described the incident as "a joke taken too far," stating that it undermines Kenya's democracy because President Ruto is the symbol of national unity.
He condemned the act, adding that it should serve as a wake-up call for President Ruto's security detail to find better ways to ensure his protection.
During a simulcast on NTV and Nation FM, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka condemned the attack, stating, "There is a lot of anger in the country, and it seems everyone wants to blame William Ruto for it. This anger needs to be addressed and managed."
President Ruto was struck by a flying shoe while addressing the rally in Kehancha town on Sunday, in an unexpected incident captured on video and shared widely on social media.
The Eastleigh Voice captured the footage of the shoe striking the head of state in mid-speech. Despite the disruption, President Ruto remained composed and continued addressing the crowd.
The president's security team got hold of the perpetrators before they could escape the scene. Police have arrested three suspects in connection with the Sunday incident
Top Stories Today
