NAIROBI:
Kenyan President William Ruto has vowed to end abductions in the country, following a recent wave of disappearances that have sparked condemnation from rights groups, lawyers, and politicians. The disappearances have largely involved young men critical of Ruto online, with accusations that security forces are responsible for illegal detentions, especially following anti-government protests in June and July.
Speaking in Homa Bay, Ruto promised to stop the abductions to allow young people to live peacefully. He also urged parents to “take responsibility” for their children. In his November state of the nation address, Ruto condemned “excessive or extrajudicial” actions but defended some detentions as legitimate arrests targeting criminals and subversive elements.
The disappearances have sparked protests, and while police have denied any involvement, activists are questioning the lack of investigation into the cases. The Law Society of Kenya has called for immediate action to identify and prosecute those responsible. Human Rights Watch has pointed to a secret unit involving multiple security agencies, an allegation echoed by former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
