President Ruto addressed new officers of the Kenya Defence Forces' General Service Unit (GSU), urging them to act with restraint and protect civilians. The GSU, a key force in counterterrorism and emergency response, has faced scrutiny over its tactics in recent years. Ruto emphasized the unit’s role in maintaining security while ensuring the safety of non-combatants.
The president highlighted the GSU’s responsibilities in securing critical infrastructure and managing crises, but stressed the need for proportionality in operations. Recent reports have raised concerns about civilian casualties during counterterrorism raids. Ruto’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over the balance between security and human rights in Kenya’s conflict zones.
The GSU has been deployed in regions affected by banditry and insurgency, where it often operates with limited oversight. Ruto’s call for restraint aligns with broader efforts to reform military conduct. However, implementing these guidelines remains a challenge in areas with high security risks.
The president’s message underscores the tension between national security imperatives and the protection of civilian lives, a recurring issue in Kenya’s security policy.
