President William Ruto has confirmed that all abducted individuals have been reunited with their families, but his comments have drawn sharp criticism from former Chief Justice David Maraga and rights advocates.
Speaking during a joint press briefing with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who is on a two-day state visit, President Ruto responded to a journalist’s question about recent reports of enforced disappearances in Kenya.
“All the people who disappeared or were abducted have been brought back to their families and their homes. I have given clarity and firm instructions that nothing of that kind will happen again,” Ruto said.
The President emphasised his administration’s commitment to democratic values and accountability, asserting that Kenya would not return to what he called “the dark days.”
“There is an accountability mechanism to ensure such situations are addressed. I undertook to the country that, as a democracy, Kenya will not go back to the dark days when citizens disappeared and their bodies were found in all manner of places. That will not happen under my administration,” he added.
However, his remarks have been met with strong reactions from civil society and legal experts who argue that the President’s response lacked empathy and accountability.
- State bans screening of BBC exposé on Gen Z protester killings
- Most Kenyans back Gen Z’s efforts to hold government accountable
Former Chief Justice David Maraga described the President’s statement as “unconscionable,” pointing to the pain still endured by victims’ families.
“It is unconscionable to hear the President claim, without any apology to the victims, parents, and families, that there are no ongoing incidents of enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings and that accountability mechanisms are in effect. Such utterances are deeply hurtful, especially to parents still mourning the loss of their children,” said Maraga.
Human rights watchdog Missing Voices reports that 55 cases of disappearances were recorded in Kenya in 2024 — a 23 per cent increase from 2023. The organization noted that a significant number of these incidents occurred during the nationwide Gen Z-led protests in June 2024, which called for political and economic reforms.
Despite acknowledging the return of those previously abducted, President Ruto did not disclose any information about the perpetrators behind the disappearances, nor the legal action — if any — being taken.
Critics argue that while the President’s assurance is welcome, more transparency and accountability are needed, with some calling for independent investigations and public apologies to those affected.
– Edwin Edgar
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
