Kenya is grappling with a disturbing wave of abductions targeting government critics, sparking outrage among lawmakers, rights groups, and families.
Recent events have intensified calls for accountability, with high-profile figures and concerned citizens demanding immediate action.
Over 80 people have reportedly been abducted in the last six months, many believed to be critics of President William Ruto’s administration.
The abductions surged in December after youth-led protests against tax hikes and the circulation of AI-generated images depicting the president in a coffin.
Among those abducted was Kibet Bull, a popular cartoonist known for his ‘kasongo’ memes critical of the president.
Bull and four others were released this week, sparking mixed emotions of relief and anger.
Bull described being dropped off in Luanda, 370 kilometers from Nairobi, after weeks of captivity. His release prompted celebration online, with Bull humorously revealing he went straight to a disco.
Others, like 24-year-old student Billy Mwangi, endured harrowing experiences.
Mwangi’s father described his son’s return as bittersweet, noting he was traumatized and had been hospitalized.
Rights groups such as Amnesty International Kenya welcomed the releases but stressed that justice must be served.
Lawmakers Demand an Inquiry
On Tuesday, a group of six senators and 19 MPs called for the formation of an independent public commission of inquiry to investigate the abductions, alleged misuse of security forces, and the resurgence of criminal gangs.
Addressing the press on Tuesday in Nairobi, the legislators expressed concern over the cases, as well as what they termed politicisation of the police, a resurgence of criminal gangs, and “the troubling spectre of state capture within our country.”
“These developments threaten the safety, dignity, and democratic rights of every Kenyan citizen,” said Senator Seki Lenku Ole Kanar.
The group further demanded a “thorough and transparent” investigation, urging President Ruto to ensure the immediate release of all remaining abductees.
They also called for special parliamentary sessions to address the crisis and probe issues like state capture, land grabbing, and the misuse of public resources.
Notably, this group of lawmakers is allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
A Climate of Fear and Accountability
Parents and families remain fearful as 24 individuals are still missing.
The Law Society of Kenya has filed a legal case against the state, demanding the unconditional release of those still unaccounted for.
While the police have denied involvement, many abductions have been linked to shadowy security units.
Amid mounting public pressure, President Ruto recently vowed to end the abductions, stating, “We are going to stop the abductions so that our youth can live peacefully and have discipline.”
Rights groups, however, argue that promises are not enough.
They continue to push for justice and accountability, emphasizing the need to hold those responsible for the abductions to account.
