Ruto Calls For Death Penalty As Youth Drug Abuse Surges
Politics Updated: 04 January 2026 15:44 EAT
President William Ruto during the Interdenominational Church Service in Chesombur, West Pokot County.
President William Ruto has called for the introduction of the death penalty for drug dealers, citing the surge in substance abuse among Kenyan youth as a national emergency. The President warned that unless drastic measures are taken, the country risks losing an entire generation to narcotics and illicit alcohol.
Speaking during a public address, Ruto said the government is determined to dismantle networks that profit from the destruction of lives. “We cannot sit back and watch our children being destroyed by drugs. Anyone dealing in hard drugs should face the toughest punishment,” he said.
Ruto noted that existing penalties, including fines and short jail terms, have failed to deter traffickers. He stressed that Kenya needs harsher laws to ensure that those involved in drug trafficking face consequences commensurate with the harm they cause.
The President described drug abuse as a crisis predominantly affecting young people in their most productive years. “Our young people are the backbone of this nation, yet drugs and illicit alcohol are wiping them out,” he said, urging families and communities to join the fight against substance abuse.
In addition to proposing the death penalty, Ruto said the government will move to seize assets linked to drug trafficking, including vehicles, property, and financial resources. He called on Parliament to fast-track legislation that would make these measures possible.
While the proposal has drawn mixed reactions, with some supporting stricter penalties and others warning against reinstating executions, Ruto insisted that bold action is necessary. “This is a war we must win to secure the future of our nation,” he said, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting Kenyan youth and families.
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FELIX MAKONA
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