Kenyan Govt Slams “Shameful” Shoe Attack on President Ruto in Migori

The Kenyan government has sharply criticized a public incident in which a shoe was thrown at President William Ruto during a rally in Kehancha, Migori County.

The widely circulated video shows the shoe striking the president’s left arm as he addressed supporters. Despite the disruption, Ruto remained composed and continued his speech, even instructing his security detail not to retaliate against the crowd.

Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura described the incident as a national embarrassment, urging for the swift arrest of those responsible.

Although local media reported the arrest of three individuals, police had not released an official statement at the time of publication.

The rally took place in a region largely loyal to opposition leader Raila Odinga, who has recently aligned with Ruto to ease political tensions following 2024’s anti-tax demonstrations.

This is not the first time a Kenyan president has faced such hostility in Migori. In 2015, former President Uhuru Kenyatta was also targeted by a thrown shoe, which led to stalled government projects in the area.

As President Ruto’s regional tour continues, government officials are calling for calm, mutual respect, and constructive dialogue as the path forward.