A coalition of lawmakers has called for an independent public commission to investigate a recent surge in abductions targeting government critics.

This follows the release of five victims abducted last month, many of whom were vocal critics of President William Ruto's administration.

Addressing the press in Nairobi on Tuesday, six senators and 19 MPs condemned the abductions, citing concerns over rising political interference in security forces, the resurgence of criminal gangs, and potential state capture.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Kajiado Senator Seki Lenku Ole Kanar said these issues pose serious threats to Kenya's democracy and citizens' safety.

The lawmakers, who are allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accused security agencies of being politically compromised and called for an impartial probe. They demanded investigations into allegations of police being used to silence dissent and into the recent wave of abductions.

In addition to the inquiry, the legislators urged the National Assembly, Senate, and county assemblies to hold special sessions during recess to address these concerns. They also appealed to President Ruto to secure the immediate release of the remaining abductees.

The team further called for a review of organized attacks on Gachagua’s allies, including incidents at the November Limuru funeral in Kiambu and the December tear gas attack in Nyandarua.

They also urged the commission to address allegations of state-sponsored criminal activities, such as land grabbing and the misuse of public resources. Specific areas under scrutiny include Ngurunga Farm in Kiambu and Nakuru Memorial Hospital.

The group comprises senators Ole Kanar, Karungo wa Thang’wa, Joe Nyutu, and others, alongside MPs like Onesmus Ngogoyo, Wanjiku Muhia, and nominated MP Teresia Wanjiru.