President William Ruto has called on young people to embrace responsibility as the country prepares to mark the second anniversary of the June 25, 2024, anti-Finance Bill protests.

Speaking during the 95th St. John Ambulance Annual Parade and Inspection at State House, Nairobi, on Sunday, June 21, Ruto reflected on recent tragedies involving young people and urged the youth to consider the consequences of their actions.

“These past few weeks, our nation has regrettably carried the pain of losing young lives in places where children should have been safest,” the president said.

He expressed sympathy for affected families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

President warns against reckless decisions

In his address, Ruto emphasised personal accountability and the long-term impact of individual choices.

“Every choice carries a consequence. Some consequences are temporary, others are permanent. They can alter the course of your life, damage your reputation, stain your record, and leave a burden on your conscience that you will carry for many years,” he said.

The president urged young people to exercise discipline and good judgment, particularly during difficult moments.

He said character is demonstrated through everyday decisions, especially “when you are angry, when no one is watching, when it is easier to follow the crowd.”

Ruto also praised St. John Ambulance cadets for their discipline and commitment to service, saying such values were important in building responsible citizens.

“Freedom without responsibility is not freedom, it is recklessness. And recklessness always has a cost,” he added.

Remarks come ahead of June 25 anniversary

The president’s comments come days before activities planned to commemorate the June 25, 2024, protests, which left dozens of people dead and sparked nationwide demonstrations.

Earlier, during the National Productivity and Performance Conference on June 19, 2026, Ruto said the government would not allow destruction of property or disruption of economic activities during the anniversary.

“The one thing that is not going to happen is that people will be mobilised to destroy property or to cause chaos or mayhem,” he stated.

He added that schools should remain open, workers should continue with their duties, businesses should operate normally, and farmers should remain productive.

Opposition leaders, including Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka and James Orengo, have announced plans for peaceful commemorative activities, including marches, vigils, and calls for justice for victims of the 2024 protests.