President Ruto Receives Grand Reception From Migori Residents A Day After The Shoe Incident

In a remarkable display of political resilience, President William Ruto received an enthusiastic welcome in Rongo, Migori County on Monday—just one day after a shoe was hurled at him during a rally in neighboring Kuria West.

The President, undeterred by Sunday’s security incident, confidently addressed supporters from the sunroof of his SUV as throngs of residents lined the streets to greet him.

This posture mirrored the very stance he maintained when the shoe struck him during his previous day’s address.

“We are committed to uniting our nation to create a conducive environment for economic prosperity. This is irrespective of our political affiliations,” President Ruto declared on his social media platform following the engagement.

A shoe flying towards President William Ruto as he addresses a rally in Kuria West, Migori county on Sunday May 4, 2025.

Monday’s triumphant reception stood in stark contrast to Sunday’s controversial incident, which occurred as the President was discussing efforts to reduce the cost of living.

“Tupunguze gharama ya—” Ruto had begun before the projectile struck his upper body, momentarily interrupting his address. Despite the incident, the President quickly regained composure and continued his speech.

During his Monday visit, Ruto inspected the ongoing construction of Riosir Market, a development project expected to benefit over 300 local traders. He also outlined plans to reform sugarcane cultivation in the region to make it more profitable for farmers.

“Later, I addressed the people and traders of Rongo Town; we undertook to reform sugarcane cultivation in the region, turning it into a profitable venture,” the President added.

Security sources confirmed that three individuals were arrested following Sunday’s incident and remain in police custody.

The shoe-throwing episode sparked widespread condemnation across the political spectrum, with Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris describing it as “cowardly and unacceptable.”

Political analysts view Ruto’s two-day tour of Migori as part of a strategic effort to strengthen his administration’s presence in Nyanza region, traditionally considered an opposition stronghold.

Through development initiatives and promises of inclusivity, the President appears determined to win support in the area as part of his national unity agenda.

Despite Sunday’s disruption, Ruto’s development message and political momentum in the region appear undiminished, suggesting that even unusual forms of protest will not derail his outreach efforts in historically opposition-leaning territories.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​