Ruto Confirms 49 Officers Convicted for Violence Against Protesters

William Ruto speaking from State House during a past event. Photo: William Ruto.

President William Ruto has announced the conviction of 49 police officers for mistreating civilians during peaceful demonstrations.

The president made the revelation during a joint UDA-ODM parliamentary group meeting at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Tuesday, March 10.

Ruto noted that 35 cases have already been successfully prosecuted, while another 30 cases are still undergoing disciplinary procedures within the police service.

“We have empowered the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure accountability for officers who violate the law. As of today, 35 cases have been prosecuted and 49 officers convicted. We have an additional 30 cases under disciplinary review. We continue to urge IPOA to execute its mandate efficiently so that we all move forward together,” he said.

On the matter of compensating victims, Ruto confirmed that a gazetted compensation panel will conclude its work before June.

The government has reportedly identified all victims of demonstrations dating back to 2013 and plans to allocate KSh 2 billion for compensation.

“We have already identified all the people involved. Parliament will be approving KSh 2 billion to ensure the victims are compensated,” Ruto explained.

The head of state also urged UDA and ODM lawmakers to propose that the Kenya Human Rights Commission table a bill in Parliament aimed at safeguarding the rights of protesters, which he described as a constitutional entitlement.

Pressure mounted on his government following the deaths of protesters during the 2024 and 2025 Gen Z-led demonstrations.