MUTURI CONDEMNS RUTO’S DIRECTIVE TO SHOOT IN THE LEG

Former Attorney General Justin Muturi has strongly criticized President William Ruto’s recent directive to police to shoot on the leg unruly protesters, calling it a betrayal of the Constitution and a moment of shame for the presidency. Muturi argued that such remarks incite violence, undermine human dignity, and violates Kenya’s constitutional principles.

 He cited Article 26 of the constitution that guarantees the right to life. He pointed out the deaths of protesters like Rex Masai, Eric Ochieng, and Kenneth Onyango as evidence of state violence. He also cited Article 27 that protects equality and freedom from discrimination. He highlighted disproportionate police brutality against youth from certain communities. Article 28 that affirms the inherent dignity of every person. Muturi condemned Ruto’s remarks for treating human bodies as target practice. Article 29 that prohibits cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Muturi argued that state sanctioned violence against protesters violates this right.

Muturi also emphasized that true security is built on trust, dialogue, and constitutional order not repression. He also demanded an immediate retraction and public apology from Ruto and urged police to uphold their constitutional oath, warning against obeying unlawful orders. According to Article 24 of the Constitution, it states that while rights can be limited under certain conditions, the right to life, dignity, and freedom from torture are absolute and non-derogable. Article 37 guarantees the right to peaceful assembly, protest, and petition. Muturi’s statement frames Ruto’s directive as a dangerous slide toward authoritarianism, urging a return to constitutional governance.