Eldoret Human Rights Activist Kipkorir Ngetich Raises Alarm Over Presidential Security Breach in Kilifi

Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has raised concern over the recent security breach involving President William Ruto after a young man reportedly broke through security and rushed toward the Head of State during a public event in Kilifi County.

Speaking following the incident, Ngetich condemned the breach and called for urgent investigations, warning that any lapse involving the President’s safety should be treated with the seriousness it deserves.

According to the activist, although similar incidents have occurred globally involving high-profile leaders, the Kilifi incident exposes possible vulnerabilities within VIP protection systems and should not be ignored.

“The incident may appear isolated, but the pattern is worrying and must be treated with the seriousness it deserves. Security lapses involving the Head of State are highly critical because they expose procedural gaps, intelligence failures, or systemic vulnerabilities in VIP protection,” Ngetich said.

He noted that Kenya’s presidential security personnel are among the best-trained officers in the region, equipped with modern skills, advanced weaponry, and tactical expertise to deal with any threat against the President.

“Presidential security officers are highly trained professionals who are well-equipped and prepared to deal with anything that threatens the President’s security. Such incidents should not occur now or in the future,” he stated.

Ngetich, however, urged Kenyans not to politicize the matter or spread panic online, saying the country should instead focus on understanding what happened and how similar incidents can be prevented in future.

He commended the Inspector General of Police for initiating investigations into the breach and called for transparency in addressing the matter.

“As we applaud the Inspector General of Police for taking action to establish what happened, it is important for the country not to politicize this sensitive issue but instead demand explanations and assurances that the President’s security remains guaranteed,” he said.

The activist maintained that President Ruto remains safe, secure, and adequately protected despite the incident, dismissing claims that the breach necessarily indicated weakness within the country’s security system.

According to Ngetich, even countries with sophisticated security structures have experienced similar moments involving world leaders.

He cited former United States President George W. Bush, who once narrowly escaped being hit by a shoe during a public appearance, saying such incidents do not automatically mean security systems have collapsed.

“We know that former U.S. President George Bush was almost hit by a shoe, but that did not mean the American security system had been overwhelmed or overpowered. Our President is safe, secure, and well protected,” Ngetich noted.

At the same time, he emphasized that the President has a constitutional responsibility to interact freely with citizens and remain accessible to ordinary Kenyans.

“The President is a human being loved and admired by many people. It is his constitutional duty to make himself available and interact with the people he leads because that helps him stay in touch with reality on the ground,” he said.

However, Ngetich stressed that public interactions involving the Head of State must be carefully managed and heavily guarded, especially during the current politically charged environment.

He observed that excitement and jubilation among citizens during presidential events often create difficult working conditions for security officers tasked with crowd control.

“The excitement and celebrations witnessed whenever citizens see the President create one of the greatest challenges for security officers. Members of the public must avoid risking their lives by rushing directly toward the President without authorization,” he cautioned.

Ngetich further warned that breaches involving high-profile leaders can trigger wider political and social consequences if not properly handled.

“Security breaches in VIP protection are highly dangerous because they threaten the safety of high-profile individuals, destabilize public trust, and risk political or social upheaval,” he warned.

He added that weaknesses in presidential protection systems could embolden criminals, create public fear, and fuel unnecessary political tension if not addressed professionally.

The activist called for enhanced public event protocols, including stronger perimeter security around the President during rallies, church functions, and other public gatherings.

“Kenyans are demanding that public event protocols such as perimeter security around the President be enhanced further, especially under the prevailing environment of heightened political activities,” he stated.

Ngetich also praised the restraint often displayed by presidential security officers during chaotic public moments, noting that the President’s security team faces enormous pressure balancing public accessibility with maximum protection.

He reminded the public that the President and his security team possess constitutional authority to take decisive action against threats to the Head of State.

“The President has the authority to command action against threats to his safety and security. Likewise, the presidential security team can authorize firm and decisive measures, including neutralizing threats where necessary,” he said.

He therefore appealed to citizens to use proper procedures whenever seeking audience with the President rather than attempting unauthorized physical contact during public events.

As investigations continue, Ngetich urged Kenyans to remain calm, avoid speculation on social media, and allow security agencies to complete their work professionally.

“We urge Kenyans to remain calm and await an official government statement on what happened yesterday. Let us avoid unnecessary speculation because propagandists are already taking advantage of the situation,” he said.

Ngetich maintained that despite the Kilifi incident, President Ruto’s security remains intact, adding that the event should serve as a lesson in strengthening future presidential security operations across the country.