How Irresponsible Media Reporting Fuelled Anti-Burundi Sentiments After Ruto Remarks

Media reporting on President William Ruto’s recent remarks about foreign traders, particularly Burundians, has come under scrutiny after headlines and social media posts appeared to amplify anti-Burundian sentiments and create the impression that Kenya had launched a campaign to drive foreign traders out of the country.

What began as remarks by the President about foreigners operating small-scale businesses without the required legal documentation quickly turned into a wider public controversy, with some media reports and online commentary portraying Ruto’s position as a blanket order targeting foreign nationals.

The coverage triggered fear among some foreign traders, particularly Burundians, as reports circulated that the government was moving to eject them from Kenya. Some reportedly sought refuge at their respective embassies amid concerns over possible harassment and reprisals.

Government Clarified

However, the government of Kenya later clarified that the president’s statement was taken out of context and he did not chase the foreign traders away or fuel xenophobia in any way.

The episode has raised difficult questions about the role of the media in reporting politically sensitive remarks, particularly when coverage can inflame existing public sentiment against a specific nationality or community.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei said reports suggesting Kenya had launched a crackdown against all foreign traders were wrong, stressing that the government’s focus was on ensuring compliance with immigration, business licensing and work permit laws.

Also Read: Kenya’s War on Foreign Traders Betrays the East African Dream

Additionally, he emphasized that Kenya remains committed to its obligations under the East African Community framework and would continue treating foreign nationals with dignity and respect.

In addition, the president also announced a 90-day administrative regularization period for undocumented East African nationals to get their documents and work permits.

Period Of 90 Days

During this period, affected individuals are expected to register through their respective embassies and regularize their immigration status before enforcement measures begin after the deadline.

Also Read: How an Alleged Nyamakima Gang Demanded Thousands From Foreign-Owned Businesses

Further, the government stressed that it has an absolute zero tolerance policy toward harassment, intimidation and xenophobia, assuring foreign nationals legally residing or working in Kenya that their rights would be protected throughout the process.

The clarification came as concerns grew that the initial interpretation of Ruto’s remarks risked straining relations within the East African Community, where the free movement of people and trade remains a key pillar of regional trade.

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