In a strong condemnation, Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has expressed outrage over the heckling incident that occurred today during President William Ruto’s tour in Isiolo, marking the conclusion of his North Eastern Development Tour. Ngetich termed the incident as “very unfortunate” and “primitive” in this modern age, calling for swift action to ensure such events do not occur in the future.
In a statement issued earlier today, Ngetich highlighted that the President, as the head of government and commander of the armed forces, is a symbol of national unity and has a constitutional mandate to visit every part of Kenya in his capacity. He stressed that the act of heckling the President was not only disruptive but was part of a larger, organized political plot aimed at tarnishing the success of the tour.
“This was not an isolated incident but a carefully orchestrated attack, likely involving paid youth who were deployed to distort the positive image of the President’s tour,” Ngetich said. “It was an effort to discredit the President’s hard work and the growing support he enjoys across Kenya. Such actions are political and must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
The human rights activist further emphasized the importance of safeguarding the President’s security and the rights of Kenyans who had gathered to witness the development agenda in their region. He underscored that the disruption of the President’s tour could have serious security implications and posed a threat to the public order. “The President’s safety is paramount, and no group should be allowed to use their rights to undermine the national security or threaten the rights of others,” he added.
Ngetich also highlighted the significance of the President’s role in uniting the country after the tense 2022 elections, as well as his recent efforts in engaging with the youth during the Gen Z demonstrations. “We cannot allow such incidents to disrupt the unity we have been striving for. The President’s visit was about development, not politics,” Ngetich said.
He called on the Inspector General of Police (IG) to immediately investigate the matter and ensure those responsible for organizing the heckling are brought to justice. “The police must take this matter seriously and make arrests. Those who disrupted the President’s function must be held accountable. This behavior must not be allowed to become a habit,” Ngetich urged.
The activist also warned that anyone who tries to repeat such behavior during future presidential visits should face legal consequences. He urged the Inspector General of Police and other national security chiefs to take preventive measures, including utilizing intelligence ahead of future events, to ensure such disruptions do not recur.
“The people of Isiolo and the entire North Eastern region are known for their hospitality and support for the development agenda. This attempt to undermine the President’s visit is an isolated incident, and it must not be allowed to tarnish the true spirit of unity and progress that the region embodies,” Ngetich concluded.
The statement serves as a stern reminder that Kenya’s security and the peaceful exercise of democratic duties must be protected from those who attempt to derail progress with politically motivated disruptions.
