Ruto Promises Action on Allegations of Abductions During Protests
President William Ruto has assured that stringent measures will be taken against police officers implicated in the alleged abductions of Kenyans during the recent anti-government protests. Speaking during his inaugural X Space conversation with the youth, Ruto emphasized the importance of adhering to legal procedures when making arrests.
“Claims of abductions is a matter that I will take up and deal with it,” Ruto stated, stressing that any actions taken outside established procedures are illegal and punishable by law. He highlighted that police are required to clearly identify themselves and state the reason for an arrest, ensuring suspects are taken to known locations.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki also addressed the issue, denying reports that the government was involved in the abductions of individuals before, during, and after the anti-Finance Bill protests. Kindiki clarified that the Constitution does not condone abductions, enforced disappearances, or torture, insisting that recent incidents were legal arrests, not abductions.
Despite these reassurances, social media activists have claimed that security forces abducted them and held them incommunicado. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and Azimio la Umoja One Kenya leadership recently submitted a report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), detailing the cases of at least 39 individuals who went missing during the protests.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo led the effort to lodge a formal report with the DCI, urging an investigation into the alleged series of abductions. Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to addressing these concerns, promising thorough investigations and accountability.
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