President William Ruto faced a major security scare on Sunday, May 4, when he was struck by a shoe while addressing a crowd in Kehancha town, Migori County.
The incident, captured in a widely circulated video, shows the shoe hitting the president’s head as he spoke about reducing the cost of farming inputs.
The disturbance briefly disrupted the rally, but Ruto quickly regained his composure and continued with his speech, emphasizing unity and development in the region.
Security officers responded immediately, rushing to the stage and apprehending three individuals suspected of involvement in the attack.
Police in Kuria West confirmed the arrests and indicated that investigations are ongoing, with authorities narrowing in on a key suspect believed to be central to the incident. Preliminary findings suggest the act may have been politically motivated and possibly premeditated ahead of the president’s visit.
The incident has drawn condemnation from local leaders and residents, including UDA Migori County Woman Leader Bevin Bhoke, who apologized to the president on behalf of the Kuria community and called for the perpetrators to face the law.
Migori UDA youth leader Byron Ogiga also denounced the act, describing it as embarrassing and uncharacteristic of the region’s peace-loving people.
While there has been no official statement from State House or national security agencies, the event has reignited concerns over the safety of public officials and the adequacy of security measures at political gatherings.
Some Members of Parliament have warned that such acts endanger the president’s life and called for heightened vigilance at future events.
Despite the incident, President Ruto concluded his Migori tour, which included launching development projects and emphasizing his administration’s commitment to national unity and economic progress.
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