President William Ruto has addressed the growing public concern over the alarming rise in abductions across the country, vowing to take action to restore public trust in national security.
Speaking at the Raila Odinga Stadium on Friday, President Ruto, while cautious in his remarks, promised to put an end to the abductions, which have caused widespread fear and outrage.
"I urge parents to take a leading role in mentoring and protecting their children as we work together to uphold peace in the nation," said Ruto. "Na yale yamesemekana mambo ya abduction tutakomesha ndio vijana wa Kenya waweze kuishi kwa amani na vilevile wawe na nidhamu ili tuweze kujenga Kenya pamoja." (Translation: "And regarding the abduction issues, we will put a stop to them so that Kenyan youth can live in peace and with discipline as we build Kenya together.")
Prime Minister Raila Odinga also weighed in, urging swift action from the president to address the abductions and hold those responsible accountable.
"The careless arrests, handcuffing, and torture of young people must stop. Those responsible must be brought to justice," Raila stated.
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The calls for action come as the country grapples with a surge in abductions, with the National Police Service (NPS) denying involvement in the distressing incidents.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized President Ruto and his administration, suggesting their silence implies complicity. Speaking in Nyeri, Gachagua highlighted that many of the victims are known for criticizing the government on social media, raising questions about state involvement.
"To remain silent or inactive is to suggest that these actions are being carried out with his (Ruto's) knowledge and consent," Gachagua asserted.
Among the latest cases are the abductions of seven individuals in December, including Steve Mbisi, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, Naomi (later found), Rony Kiplang’at, and cartoonist Gideon Kibet, alias Kibet Bull. Many of the victims had been outspoken against the government on social media platforms.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reported that 29 people have gone missing due to abductions since June, with 13 cases recorded in the last three months alone. The total number of reported abduction cases since June 2024 now stands at 82, many linked to anti-government protests.
The government faces mounting pressure to resolve the crisis and reassure citizens of their safety.
