Recent Surge in Disappearances
Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly committed to ceasing the abductions that have recently plagued the country, particularly following the wave of disappearances linked to youth-led protests against the government in June and July. These protests have led to accusations against security forces for engaging in dozens of unlawful detentions.
Focus on Young Critics
The disappearances have mostly targeted young men who have publicly criticized Ruto on social media platforms. Despite denials from the police, human rights organizations have rejected these claims of non-involvement and are demanding swift action.
Ruto’s Public Assurance
During a public address in Homa Bay, Ruto promised to halt these abductions to ensure the youth can live without fear. “We are going to stop the abductions so that our youth can live peacefully,” he stated, as reported by local media. This promise echoes his earlier condemnation of “excessive or extrajudicial” actions in his November state of the nation address, though he also justified some arrests as necessary to curb criminal activities.
Public and Legal Backlash
The public’s frustration has manifested in small protests, reflecting dissatisfaction with the current situation. The Law Society of Kenya has challenged the police’s narrative, insisting that if they are not involved, they should actively investigate and prosecute those responsible for the abductions.
Accusations of a Secretive Unit
Human Rights Watch has pointed to evidence suggesting the involvement of a special unit composed of various security agencies in these disappearances. This narrative was further supported by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused the government of employing a covert unit to target and repress young dissenters, labeling it as unprecedented in Kenyan history.
This ongoing issue underscores a significant challenge for Ruto’s administration in managing public order while maintaining civil liberties and the trust of the Kenyan populace.
