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National Assembly Defence Committee Chair Nelson Koech has come under sharp criticism after advocating for police to use lethal force against protesters who invade restricted areas or damage property—an approach that directly opposes President William Ruto’s recent call for restraint.
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In a controversial statement, Koech insisted that officers should not aim to injure but instead “shoot to kill,” branding demonstrators who storm institutions or private premises as “criminals” and “terrorists.”
“The President said ‘shoot but not kill.’ I’m saying: shoot to kill. These are not peaceful protesters. They’re criminals attacking Parliament and businesses and should be treated like terrorists,” Koech said.
His comments echo earlier sentiments by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who also urged police to “shoot and kill” anyone approaching officers or government buildings during protests. Murkomen’s remarks triggered nationwide outrage and led to a court case filed by human rights groups, accusing him of inciting police violence and violating the Constitution.
Koech defended his stance, referencing the Police Act, which he said allows officers to use their firearms when their lives or public safety is threatened.
“Police shouldn’t wait to be attacked. Anyone threatening places like State House or Parliament isn’t a protester—they’re a criminal,” he argued. He also dismissed talk of President Ruto being a one-term leader, asserting, “We’ll serve two terms just like Kibaki and Uhuru.”
Koech further accused unnamed individuals of sponsoring the unrest and vowed that the state would go after those responsible for the recent chaos and destruction.
His remarks come in the wake of President Ruto’s address at the launch of the Police Housing Project in Kilimani, where he advised police to incapacitate rather than kill violent demonstrators. Ruto urged law enforcement to shoot looters or attackers in the leg and ensure they face justice through the courts.
The backlash follows Monday’s deadly Saba Saba protests, during which the National Police Service confirmed at least 31 deaths and 63 injuries. Over 560 people were arrested. The demonstrations, largely led by Gen Z youth, demanded accountability, better governance, and an end to police brutality.
