Man sprints toward Ruto in Wajir address, security intercepts

President William Ruto’s security was forced into a Donnaruma-style save on Thursday at Wajir Stadium, after a man broke through the crowd and charged toward the President during a live address.

The moment was reminiscent of Gianluigi Donnaruma’s famous stop against Liverpool at Anfield.

The incident occurred during the NYOTA youth capital disbursement tour and was broadcast live on Citizen TV.

As the man sprinted toward the presidential dais, the security team lunged in a swift, decisive intervention, safely bringing him to the ground without any injuries, much like a world-class goalkeeper diving to deny a last-minute goal.

“Leave him. Let him relax there. Sit down. I will meet with you later,” Mr Ruto told his aides, instructing them not to escalate the situation.

The live incident drew attention online, with many viewers drawing the football parallel, praising the team’s reflexes and composure under pressure.

Authorities have not yet commented on the man’s motives or whether he was detained following the event.

Unfazed, the President continued his address, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to youth empowerment, cross-border trade, and local development.

Other notable incidents

The Wajir episode adds to a string of high-profile events where President Ruto’s security had to act swiftly:

Kisii shoe-throwing incident (October 2025)

A spectator threw a shoe toward the President at a rally; it fell short and was quickly intercepted by security.

Other crowd rush attempts

At various public events, attempts to breach protective perimeters have been promptly contained by the Presidential Escort Unit and police.

Security analysts say such incidents, while rare, underscore the intensity of political engagement around the President and highlight the importance of strict protective protocols during public gatherings.