A shoe was thrown at Kenyan President William Ruto on Sunday, May 4, during a public gathering in Migori County, in the western part of the country. At least three people were arrested in the aftermath, according to local media reports.
The incident occurred while the head of state was addressing a crowd as part of a tour focused on launching development projects. The object, thrown by an attendee, struck the president on his left arm. Despite the attack, William Ruto continued his speech and instructed his security detail not to intervene. Viral videos circulating on social media show him holding the shoe in his hand while calmly continuing to speak.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura condemned the act in a message posted on X (formerly Twitter): “What would happen if we all started throwing shoes? What values are we teaching our children?”
For many analysts, the gesture reflects a growing sense of public frustration, fueled by the country’s worsening economic crisis. Rising prices, a higher cost of living, and increased pressure on households are among the key factors driving public anger.