For the first time, President William Ruto has publicly admitted to instances of power abuse by Kenya’s security forces, following a spate of controversial kidnappings that have ignited widespread protests.
During Tuesday’s New Year’s address, Ruto acknowledged “instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions” by security personnel, though he refrained from providing specific details.
The president’s remarks come in the wake of youth-led protests over alleged abductions by security forces, particularly after the violent suppression of demonstrations in June and July. These protests, which sought to highlight the growing number of disappearances, were met with tear gas, mass detentions, and other heavy-handed tactics.
“That said, it is crucial to remember that every freedom has its limits, and public safety and order must always supersede the desire for unchecked liberty,” Ruto stated.
Calls for Accountability
Human rights activists have criticized the government’s perceived inaction in addressing these disappearances. A recent court order demanded that five men, allegedly abducted by security forces, either be released immediately or have their cases explained under oath. However, no individuals were presented in court on Tuesday, and the police inspector general sent a representative instead. The families of the missing continue to express deep concern.
The disappearances disproportionately involve young individuals critical of Ruto’s administration. Among them are two individuals who shared a controversial AI-generated image depicting the president in a coffin. In his address, Ruto linked such incidents to the dangers of digital manipulation and harmful social media content. “These are clear signals that our moral fabric is at risk of decay,” he remarked.
Human Rights Watch Raises Alarms
Human Rights Watch has highlighted the role of a special security unit comprising multiple agencies in these abductions. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has reported seven kidnappings this month alone, with six victims still missing. Since June, 29 out of 82 reported disappearances remain unresolved. These statistics have intensified calls for accountability from both the government and security forces.
