Ruto to Parents: "If You Surrender Your Children to The Police, What Do You Expect?"

 President William Ruto has issued a passionate call to Kenyan parents, urging them to take full and unwavering responsibility for raising and mentoring their children.

Speaking during the consecration of Bishop Benjamin Kalanzo at the African Inland Church (AIC) Bomani in Machakos County on Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Head of State profoundly underscored that parenting is a sacred, God-given duty—one that cannot, and should not, be outsourced to the government, religious institutions, or the perilous influences of the streets.

In his impactful address, Ruto stated, “Our children are the biggest asset we have. Their talent and ability are key in building this nation, and it is our collective responsibility to guide, mentor, and educate them.”

Stressing that parenting is a divinely appointed role, he issued a stern warning against delegating that crucial responsibility: “Do not surrender your role to the church or the government. If God gives you a child, He knows you are capable of raising that child. Don’t let your child be raised on the streets by strangers.”

He further cautioned against surrendering children to law enforcement, stating, "The police are trained to deal with criminals, not in parenting. If you surrender your children to the police, what do you expect?"

Parental Neglect Linked to Youth Unrest

President Ruto’s remarks come at a particularly tense and sensitive moment in the country, with significant youth involvement in recent political protests triggering widespread national concern.

In particular, the tragic death of activist Boniface Kariuki in June 2025 and the widespread participation of young people in the July 7 Saba Saba demonstrations have brought urgent questions of youth mentorship and guidance to the forefront of national discourse.

Ruto directly linked the recent unrest to a perceived breakdown in parental leadership and engagement, warning that without deliberate and proactive intervention, the country risks losing its next generation to harmful influences and societal pitfalls.This is not the first time President Ruto has raised alarm over parental neglect. In a December 2024 visit to Homa Bay, the President had previously addressed the issue of rising abductions and called on parents to be more actively involved in their children's discipline and overall wellbeing.

Echoing that consistent concern on Sunday, he reiterated, “Our children’s energy and talent are vital to Kenya’s future. We must channel it through consistent mentorship and engagement.”

Mixed Reactions 

Reactions on social media to the President’s strong message have been notably mixed. Some users, like @ParentPowerKE, applauded the President's stance: “Ruto’s right—parents must lead, not leave it to others. #ParentingMatters.”

These voices align with traditional views on parental responsibility. However, others called for practical support to match the rhetoric.

@YouthVoiceKE questioned, “Good message, but where’s the support for families struggling? #RutoSpeakUp."

Meanwhile, critics like @Skeptic254 responded sharply, drawing a connection between the President's words and recent events: “Ruto blames parents while police kill kids in protests. Hypocrisy! #Accountability.”

This reflects the heightened tension and demand for government accountability following the protests. @HopefulKenyan offered a more balanced and empathetic view, saying, “Mentoring kids is key after Boniface’s loss. Ruto’s on point. #GuideOurYouth.”