Three Arrested After Shoe Thrown at Ruto in Kehancha, Main Suspect Still at Large

A security breach occurred during President William Ruto's rally in Kehancha, Migori County, on Sunday, as a shoe was hurled at the president. 

The incident has sparked strong condemnation from the government, which has labelled it a serious security lapse and called for immediate investigations and legal action against those responsible. Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura issued a statement on Monday, expressing the government's strong disapproval of the incident and emphasising the importance of respecting the office of the President. He voiced concerns about the implications of such actions, urging citizens to uphold national values and maintain order during public events.

"The government strongly condemns the incident that occurred in Kehancha, Migori County. We must respect the institution of the Presidency," Mwaura stated. 

He calls for the apprehension of those behind the disruption, emphasising that such acts set a dangerous precedent and undermine the country's democratic stability. The incident unfolded as President Ruto addressed residents in Kehancha. Eyewitness accounts and video footage circulating online captured the moment the shoe was thrown from the crowd, narrowly missing the President and briefly interrupting his speech. 

Following the breach, law enforcement officers detained three individuals suspected of involvement in the act. However, reports indicate that the primary perpetrator remains at large. Sources within the police force confirm that authorities in Migori are collaborating with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to identify and apprehend the key suspect. Preliminary investigations suggest that the incident was premeditated, with planning taking place days ahead of the President’s arrival in the region.

The identities and motives of the detained individuals have not been disclosed, and officials have yet to release an official statement detailing their possible involvement. Meanwhile, security agencies are working to reinforce protective measures as President Ruto continues his three-day tour of the county. 

The incident has occurred amidst a backdrop of political undercurrents and cabinet appointments that have stirred discontent among certain factions. Speaking in Rongo, Homa Bay, President Ruto addressed growing frustrations over his decision to include leaders from the opposition party, Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), in top government positions.

"Some people are angry with me because I appointed Mbadi as Treasury Cabinet Secretary and Opiyo Wandayi as Energy Cabinet Secretary, because they did not vote for me. I have told them that the government of Kenya is for all citizens. Those who voted for me and those who did not. It is for all Kenyans who pay taxes," Ruto asserted.

He conveyed his administration’s commitment to inclusivity in an effort to bridge political divisions and foster a governance approach that transcends electoral allegiances. President Ruto has described his collaboration with ODM leaders as a "broad-based working arrangement," reinforcing his stance that government representation should reflect national unity rather than partisanship.

Among the key opposition figures appointed to the Cabinet are Hassan Joho (Mining), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives), John Mbadi (Treasury) and Beatrice Askul (ASAL), marking a significant shift in the political landscape. Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, President Ruto used the opportunity to challenge his opponents, dismissing divisive politics rooted in tribalism, anger, and hatred. Instead, he advocated for leadership that prioritises tangible development programs.

“They must not think they can sell us anger, tribalism, hatred, and divisions. These will not determine the next election,” Ruto remarked.

He emphasised that voters will ultimately decide the nation’s leadership based on practical governance strategies and developmental projects rather than sentiment-driven campaigns.

“You are the people who will decide who becomes MCA, MP, Senator, Governor, and President — not based on beauty, but on development plans for roads, electricity, water, and more,” he stated.