The country’s security agencies reportedly abducted no Kenyans during or after the recent wave of anti-government protests nationwide, according to President William Ruto.
During a town hall session in Kisumu on Thursday evening, President Ruto urged citizens whose kin or friends had reportedly disappeared under mysterious circumstances during protests to come forward with their names so that the government could take appropriate action.
The Head of State assigned Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, who was also present, the responsibility of addressing the issue, following up on the cases, and locating the missing individuals.
MPs question the use of a Ksh.16 billion World Bank loan for a livestock insurance scheme.
“If there is a family whose child, friend, or relative went to a demonstration last year or this year and never came back, I want to know the names because I will take firm and decisive action,” he said.
“I’m here because I don’t have a single name for anyone who has been abducted or disappeared as I speak to you today,” says President Ruto. “We are here to assist you. We will handle that situation.”
He continued, “No Kenyan should face inhumane treatment due to their political beliefs, as they possess a legal right of association.”
The President went ahead to reiterate his promise to Kenyans during the campaign period that he would end the era of extrajudicial killings and state-enforced disappearances if elected to top office.
He cited the case of River Yala, where at least 40 bodies were found dumped in 2022, noting that his administration will endeavour to protect the lives of all citizens regardless of their political leanings.
“I committed to informing the people of Kenya that, under my administration, I do not want a situation where a Kenyan disappears,” said Ruto.
“I promise the Kenyan people that under my administration, there will be no Kenyans in River Yala or elsewhere.”
