“I am totally embarrassed”; Belgut MP Nelson Koech Apologises for ‘Shoot-to-Kill’ Remarks, Distances Himself from Earlier Comments

Belgut MP Nelson Koech has issued a public apology for statements in which he appeared to support a “shoot-to-kill” approach against violent protesters. Speaking on Citizen TV on Thursday, Koech said the comments were made in the heat of the moment and do not reflect his character or values.

“I must have been misquoted. Those who know me understand I am not that kind of person. I unequivocally apologise. The sanctity of life is guaranteed by the Constitution and the Bible, which I believe in,” Koech said. He described his earlier remarks as embarrassing and expressed regret for making them.

The apology follows comments Koech made on July 10, 2025, during a discussion on violent protests and property destruction. At the time, he praised President William Ruto’s directive that police shoot suspects in the legs if they were masquerading as protesters to loot or destroy property. Koech went further, saying officers should “shoot and kill” those threatening lives, families, or businesses.

“You cannot have someone coming after your life and tell me you cannot shoot and kill,” Koech said during the July remarks. He argued that armed criminals entering protected areas, such as State House, should face the same force and warned that offenders would face serious charges, including terrorism-related offences.

As chairman of the National Assembly Defence Committee, Koech cited the Constitution and Police Act, noting that officers are allowed to use firearms when their lives are in danger. His remarks came amid President Ruto’s directive to target criminals disguising themselves as protesters, emphasizing that suspects should be taken to hospital and later charged, while protecting livelihoods and business activities.

During Thursday’s interview, Koech clarified that he does not condone unlawful killing. He said he should have exercised more restraint and chosen his words carefully. “I am totally embarrassed by that statement. It came in the heat of the moment, and I should have been more careful,” he added.

The MP’s apology seeks to reassure the public that he respects human life and the law. He also reaffirmed his commitment to the Constitution and ethical leadership, underscoring that his earlier statements were inconsistent with his beliefs and personal character.