‘Ruto must go’ viral video lands police officer in big trouble
A police officer who has been trending on social media is about to learn a hard lesson in his career, thanks to TikTok platform.
The policeman went viral after posting a clip in which he claimed to be reading comments from his followers about the current administration of President William Ruto, and the ongoing protests.
Kenyans on Twitter and Facebook shared the clip widely, with some calling for action against the officer, who is supposed to adhere to the National Police Service guidelines.
“Zakayo must go, Ruto must go… imagine kila mtu anasema Ruto must go… mimi ni comments nasoma tu (everyone is saying Ruto must go… I’m just reading comments),” the officer says in the clip.
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Some of the phrases used by the officer, who was with a colleague, are used by Azimio la Umoja – One Kenyan Coalition in their anti-government protests.
The policeman is also heard saying that “dialogue is the only solution and it must come immediately.”
In response, the National Police Service has condemned the officer for making misleading and reckless remarks.
“As a Disciplined Service, we wish to clarify and assure the public that the behaviour portrayed in the clip is not only unacceptable but also doesn’t reflect the values of NPS,” a statement from the National Police Service reads.
The police termed the officer’s remarks as regrettable and that they have embarked on an internal review with a view of preferring appropriate disciplinary action.
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The National Police Service also said it remains focused on training its officers to the highest standards.
This development comes at the height of anti-government protests by Azimio la Umoja – One Kenya Coalition.
The third wave of demonstration by the opposition coalition started on Wednesday in several parts of the country and will continue on Thursday up to Friday.
On Wednesday, Nairobi’s CBD remained calm but it was deserted as business people and traders failed to show up for fear of being caught up in the protests.
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