Shoe Thrown at President Ruto During Fiery Rally in Migori Sparks Outrage and Arrests

Migori, Kenya – A political rally addressed by President William Ruto turned chaotic on Sunday after a protester hurled a shoe at the president, a dramatic gesture of dissent that has since ignited national debate and led to multiple arrests.

The incident occurred in Migori County, a traditional opposition stronghold, where President Ruto was speaking about Kenya’s economic challenges and his administration’s reforms. As tensions ran high among sections of the crowd, a shoe flew toward the president, narrowly missing his face. Ruto deflected the object with his arm and continued his address unharmed.

Videos of the incident quickly circulated on social media, with many users interpreting the act as a symbol of public frustration over soaring costs of living, tax proposals, and perceived political disconnect.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed that three individuals had been arrested in connection with the disturbance. Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura condemned the act as “shameful and disrespectful,” warning that such actions undermine national unity and the dignity of the presidency.

“This is not just an attack on an individual, but on the very institution of the presidency,” Mwaura stated. “We must learn to engage through dialogue and democratic processes, not acts of provocation.”

President Ruto has recently faced mounting pressure to address growing discontent, especially in economically strained regions. Earlier this year, he made concessions including shelving controversial tax hikes and appointing opposition figures to key government roles in a bid to ease political tensions.

The incident evokes historical parallels, notably the 2008 shoe-throwing episode involving former U.S. President George W. Bush in Iraq—an act widely viewed as a visceral expression of protest.

Despite the disruption, President Ruto completed his speech and reiterated calls for unity, economic resilience, and political tolerance.

iNewsAfrica will continue monitoring developments as authorities investigate the motives behind the act and its broader political implications.