A slight commotion was recorded at a high-profile youth event in Wajir County when an unidentified man dramatically breached security and sprinted toward the stage where President William Ruto was addressing thousands of beneficiaries of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme.
The incident unfolded on February 12, 2026, during the disbursement of business capital funds under the NYOTA initiative, aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs. As President Ruto spoke passionately about youth opportunities and economic transformation, the man suddenly dashed from the crowd, approaching from the President’s blind side in a bid to reach the podium.
Presidential Security Unit officers sprang into action with lightning speed, tackling and restraining the individual within seconds before he could make contact. The brief disruption halted the President’s remarks momentarily, but Ruto remained remarkably composed. In a viral moment captured on video, he intervened calmly, urging officers: “Eei, so sorry, leave him alone, let him relax there. He should sit down somewhere there, and I will see him later.”
The event resumed smoothly without further interruptions, and authorities quickly emphasized that no harm came to the President, dignitaries, or members of the public.
In an official statement issued late Thursday by National Police Service spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, the NPS confirmed the security incident but insisted it was “handled promptly” with “utmost professionalism and speed.” The service reiterated: “At no time was the safety of His Excellency the President, other dignitaries, or members of the public compromised.”
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja wasted no time, immediately constituting a special investigation team tasked with probing the breach. The team has just **three days** to uncover how the man penetrated the security cordon, identify any procedural lapses, and recommend urgent measures to prevent future scares during presidential engagements.
The man, now in custody, reportedly told media outlets he had no malicious intent—he simply wanted to greet the President and pitch his bid to run for Member of County Assembly (MCA) in 2027. He expressed no regrets over his actions, claiming desperation drove him to the bold move.
This Wajir scare comes hot on the heels of a similar incident in Mombasa just days earlier, where another individual rushed toward the President, raising fresh questions about presidential security protocols amid rising public engagements.
While police moved swiftly to contain the situation and reassure Kenyans of their unwavering commitment to protection, the rapid probe underscores the gravity of even minor lapses in high-stakes environments. As investigations unfold, all eyes are on whether this was an isolated act of enthusiasm or a sign of deeper vulnerabilities.
The NPS concluded its statement with a firm pledge: “The National Police Service remains steadfast in its commitment to serve and protect.” For now, the NYOTA event’s positive message of youth empowerment continues—but under tighter scrutiny.
