Ruto: Anyone who sets fire to someone else's property should be shot in the leg, hospitalized, and later brought to court

Kenyan President William Ruto spoke out for the first time today about anti-government protests that are demanding his resignation, among other things, calling on police to "break the leg" of those who stole and burned property during the demonstrations.

"Enough," he said, adding that he would not allow "anarchy" in the country disguised as peaceful demonstrations.

"Anyone who is going to burn other people's property should be shot in the leg, hospitalized, and later brought to court after recovery. Don't kill them, but break their leg," he said while touring a site in Nairobi for one of his administration's affordable housing projects.

Protests have been ongoing for weeks over the death of a blogger in custody. Tensions rose after a police officer shot a civilian at close range during a demonstration against police brutality. Police clashed with demonstrators, killing 50 people and injuring more than 100. More than 500 were arrested.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk called for a response to the demands that led to the protests.

Ruto claims the discontent is politically motivated and said he will not allow property to be destroyed.

"You can call me whatever you want, but I will ensure that there is peace and stability in Kenya," Ruto said.

The president read the riot control law to his political rivals, who he claims are seeking to overthrow his government through violence, adding that any attack on a police station is a declaration of war.

"This is a democratic country, and it is the citizens who determine their leadership through elections. We cannot decide leadership through violence," Ruto said.

Civil society groups have repeatedly called for police restraint during the demonstrations.