Kenya’s President William Ruto just avoided wound on Sunday when a foot was hurled at him during a public protest in Kehancha, Migori County. The event, captured on video, occurred as the leader addressed the crowd on the administration’s efforts to reduce the cost of living, a subject that has sparked widespread consumer discontent in Kenya. Videos circulating on social media show the senator deflecting the approaching boot with his shoulder before continuing his statement. Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that three people have been arrested in connection with the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause behind the action. Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura condemned the act, stating on social media,” What would happen if we all decided to throw shoes at each other, what values are we teaching our children”? Frustrations over the rising cost of livingThe shoe-throwing incident comes amid growing public frustration over economic challenges, including high inflation and recent tax hikes, which many citizens blame for worsening the cost of living and shrinking household incomes across the country. Basic goods such as cooking oil, sugar, and energy have seen substantial price rises, prompting problems from consumers and small-scale traders equally who feel abandoned by policymakers. Experts say the shoe-hurling event may indicate a symbolic act of defiance. ” It’s a reflection of bottled-up anger”, said political commentator Virginia Wanjiru. ” When people feel unknown, for actions, while not reasonable, be expressions of extraordinary frustration”, Wanjiru said. ” The government should view this not as an isolated act of indiscipline, but as a warning sign of deeper societal unrest” .Over the past year, the Kenyan government has introduced several fiscal reforms, including new tax measures under the Finance Act, which have stirred public discontent. Critics argue that while the administration touts the reforms as necessary for economic stability and debt reduction, the burden has fallen disproportionately on low- and middle-income households. Government urges citizens to abide by the lawAuthorities in Kenya have urged the public toexpress their grievances peacefully and lawfully. Despite the government’s efforts to address these issues, many Kenyans feel that more needs to be done. Local resident Maureen Mwihaki expressed her discontent. ” We are tired of promises. Life is becoming unbearable, and we need real solutions, not just words”, Mwihaki said, stressing that President Ruto needed to listen to the people. ” I don’t like our president, he needs to do better” .For Brian Njuguna Mwangi, a small business owner, the shoe thrown at Ruto reflects the desperation of the people. ” We are tired”, he said. ” That was not just a shoe, it was defiance. The incident has raised concerns about the security of public officials and the rising tension between the government and its citizens, which is a wake-up call for our leaders.
