Kenyan President William Ruto has vowed to put an end to the surge of abductions in the country, which have drawn sharp condemnation from human rights groups, legal bodies, and political leaders.
Speaking in Homa Bay on Friday, Ruto addressed the growing concerns over the disappearances, which have largely targeted young men critical of the government, especially on social media platforms.
“We are going to stop the abductions so that our youth can live peacefully,” Ruto assured a local crowd, while also urging parents to take greater responsibility for their children.
His remarks follow widespread allegations that security forces have been involved in illegal detentions, particularly after anti-government protests erupted earlier this year.
Although Ruto previously addressed the issue in his November state of the nation speech—condemning extrajudicial actions while defending some detentions as necessary arrests—public frustration remains high. Small protests continue to flare up in different towns, with activists accusing the government of failing to take meaningful action.
The Law Society of Kenya has demanded urgent investigations, stating, “If indeed the police are not complicit, they must immediately investigate and prosecute those responsible.”
Human Rights Watch earlier reported evidence suggesting the involvement of a covert unit comprising multiple security agencies in the abductions.
Adding weight to the accusations, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently hinted at the existence of a secret government unit allegedly orchestrating the disappearances.
Despite Ruto’s reassurances, the public remains skeptical, with calls intensifying for transparency, accountability, and concrete action to end the cycle of fear and impunity.
