Former Chief Justice David Maraga has issued a scathing rebuke of President William Ruto’s administration over its recent endorsement of violent police tactics against protesters, warning that the country is drifting toward a dangerous path of state-sponsored brutality.

Maraga, who has declared his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, decried comments from government leaders encouraging the shooting of demonstrators, particularly those accused of looting during protests. “In just one month, more than 60 young people have been killed. And now we’re hearing that some should be shot in the leg—or even killed. Where are we headed?” he questioned during a public address.

He criticized the militarization of policing and called for a deeper look into the root causes of civil unrest. Maraga highlighted economic hardship, government excesses, and public disillusionment as key drivers of the current protests, particularly among the youth. “The government is collecting so many taxes, yet hospitals have no medicine. It feels like we’re just slaves working for others,” he lamented.

Positioning himself as a voice of reason and change, Maraga appealed directly to Kenya’s young population. “I urge the youth to come forward and send this government home and allow me to work with you,” he said, promising a government grounded in justice, accountability, and dignity.

The backlash comes in the wake of President Ruto’s controversial directive to police officers to shoot protesters in the leg, a move that has sparked outrage and condemnation across the country. Belgut MP Nelson Koech further inflamed tensions by suggesting that looters should be shot dead, equating protest-related offenses with terrorism.

Koech defended his remarks by citing the Police Act, claiming officers have the legal right to use lethal force when facing immediate threats. However, civil rights advocates and Gen Z-led movements argue that such rhetoric is unconstitutional and undermines democratic freedoms.

As Kenya continues to grapple with nationwide protests and increasing dissatisfaction among its youth, Maraga’s bold stance could resonate with a generation yearning for change—and accountability at the ballot box.