Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Justin Muturi, has boldly stated that he does not fear being dismissed by President William Ruto after his outspoken criticism of the government’s handling of the abduction crisis in the country.
Muturi, who publicly broke ranks with the administration on Sunday, demanded an immediate end to extrajudicial operations targeting perceived enemies of the government.
He emphasised that the growing number of abductions and illegal detentions in the country must be addressed transparently and without intimidation.
On Monday, Muturi reiterated his stance in an interview with Nation, dismissing any fear of retribution for his actions.
“What fear?” he asked, adding that he has placed his faith in God should President Ruto decide to remove him from office. “Mungu mbele” (God first), he said.
His decision to speak out follows a personal experience with the abduction crisis. More than six months ago, while serving as Attorney General, his own son, Leslie Muturi, was kidnapped by an unknown assailant and held incommunicado. No charges have been filed against anyone involved, and the reasons for the abduction remain unclear.
Muturi, aware of the doctrine of collective responsibility, made it clear that his position was not just about holding others accountable but also about urging open national dialogue on the matter.
“I have not gotten any answers,” he said. “I have taken this unusual step so that the matter can be debated honestly and openly as a country, with a view to finding a lasting solution. If left unchecked, this issue could plunge the country into chaos and anarchy.”
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Muturi insisted that his actions were not driven by politics but by a moral obligation to address the growing crisis. “I’m seeking to have a discussion on this matter of abduction so that we can find a solution,” he said, emphasising the need for open, fearless dialogue.
The CS also noted that President Ruto had expressed a desire to end the abductions, acknowledging the potential dangers posed by the situation. “I believe he is fully cognisant of the potential that these shenanigans have to plunge the country into total anarchy,” Muturi stated.
The issue of abductions has escalated, with the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reporting at least 82 cases of abductions since June 2024.
Despite public outcry and calls for accountability, the government has struggled to address the growing wave of enforced disappearances, leading to widespread protests and unrest. Activists continue to face harassment as the government seeks to silence critics.
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