Kenya National Commission on Human Rights vice chairperson Raymond Nyeris
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has urged the police to conduct proper investigations into an incident in which a shoe was thrown at President William Ruto in Kuria West.
Vice Chairperson Raymond Nyeris said those responsible must be held accountable in accordance with the law, while respecting the rights of the accused.
Nyeris further urged political leaders and actors to lead by example by fostering a political environment characterised by civility, mutual respect, and issue-based discourse.
“Leaders have a heightened responsibility to discourage violence and intolerance among their supporters,” he said.
He asked Kenyans to unequivocally condemn violence and disrespect in all its forms and to actively promote tolerance, respectful dialogue, and constructive engagement on all matters of national importance.
Nyeris said the May 4, 2025, incident was regrettable and stands in stark contrast to the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution.
“Such acts of disrespect against the Head of State, or indeed any individual, are unacceptable and have no place in a democratic society governed by the rule of law,” he added.
“Throwing objects, an act of violence and disrespect, fundamentally violates the requirement for peaceful expression and undermines the very rights Article 37 seeks to protect.”
In a statement, Nyeris said such actions are not a legitimate form of petition or demonstration but rather an unacceptable resort to aggression that endangers public order and disrespects constitutionally established authority.
“Additionally, Section 6 of the Public Order Act forbids individuals from carrying offensive weapons while attending a public meeting or procession,” he stated.
Already, three suspects have been arrested and are aiding the police with investigations.
A police report from Kuria West Sub-County, Kehancha Police Station, said the suspects are all male, aged 18, 20 and 22 years.
It said the 18-year-old is the suspect caught on camera throwing a shoe to the President.
The report added that the second and third were heckling while the head of state was delivering his speech.
“All three are from Kuria West, Komasincha, and Taranganya locations. All three were arrested at Kehancha town,” it stated.
