President William Ruto has condemned the violence and lawlessness witnessed during the June 25 anniversary protests, where shops were vandalized and property looted.

Ruto said the protest organizers may be seeking power and advised them to use the ballot as the proper avenue.

Speaking during an event celebrating Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on Friday, June 27, 2025, the president said he has listened to the protesters, many of whom claim to love Kenya. He urged them not to destroy the country in the name of change.

“If you truly love Kenya then don’t burn your country. Don’t be part of the problem. Violence is not a solution to unemployment or any of the challenges Kenya is facing. If these people continue this way, we will have no country at the end,” said an angry Ruto.

With opposition leaders and protesters now calling him ‘wantam’—a one-term president—Ruto said he has no issue with serving one or more terms, but emphasized the need for a solid alternative plan.

"You cannot replace a plan you don’t like with no plan. The only thing you are armed with is hate and violence,” he said.