President Ruto Shoves Bodyguard to Greet Nyeri Residents in Rare Security Breach
A video circulating online has captured a striking moment during President William Ruto’s visit to Nyeri County, showing the Kenyan leader pushing aside a bodyguard to reach residents eager to greet him.
In the footage, a member of Ruto’s close protection unit is seen restraining a crowd pressing forward at the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Grounds, where the President was attending an official event. As the crowd surged, the officer appeared to block the President’s path.
Rather than retreating, President Ruto was filmed pulling the bodyguard aside, shaking hands with the residents, before the officer disappeared behind members of the media team accompanying the President. His aide-de-camp (ADC) was also seen stepping in to assist in moving the officer aside.
The incident, unfolding in full public view, has sparked a lively debate on social media, with some observers describing it as a breach of protocol.
“Seems like the CPO team has no elaborate strategy for such a setup. I read disorganisation,” one social media user commented.
The Nyeri tour coincided with the official launch of the NYOTA Project Business Start-Up Capital, during which KSh173.2 million was disbursed to youth beneficiaries from Nyeri, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, and Murang’a counties. The initiative aims to support entrepreneurship and job creation among young Kenyans.
This is not the first time President Ruto’s security has attracted attention. In a separate incident just months earlier, a shoe was hurled at him during a public address in Migori County. The President, visibly shocked, blocked the shoe with his hands before his security team pursued the suspect. Ruto, however, intervened and instructed officers to release the individual, stressing the need for calm.
UDA Kuria Woman Leader Bevine Bhoke condemned the Migori incident as “unfortunate and embarrassing,” apologising on behalf of her community.
“On behalf of the Kuria community, I apologise to the President for the misfortune and embarrassing incident that took place at Kehancha during his tour,” Bhoke said, emphasising that the community is peace-loving and urging the police to take appropriate action.
Observers say the Nyeri interaction highlights President Ruto’s willingness to personally connect with citizens, even in potentially risky situations, raising questions about protocol versus accessibility in the handling of state security.
President Ruto Shoves Bodyguard to Greet Nyeri Residents in Rare Security Breach