Nairobi, Kenya – The United States has expressed grave concern over a surge in abductions in Kenya, calling for accountability and respect for the rule of law.
Speaking on Tuesday, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Marc Dillard urged Kenyan authorities to act swiftly to end the disappearances.
Dillard’s remarks came as he paid tribute to the late former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, known globally for his dedication to human rights.
“In the spirit of President Carter’s legacy, we join the calls in Kenya for accountability and respect for the rule of law. Abductions must end,” Dillard stated.
Alarm Over Abductions
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported at least 82 abductions since anti-government protests began in June. Of these, 29 people remain missing. In December alone, six individuals were abducted under mysterious circumstances, even as courts issued habeas corpus orders for their production.
Among the missing are Peter Muteti, a social media influencer reportedly abducted in broad daylight in Uthiru, and Billy Mwangu, who was forcibly taken from a barbershop in Embu by armed, masked men. Witnesses claim one of Muteti’s abductors wore a police uniform.
The missing men allegedly posted controversial content critical of President William Ruto on social media.
Police Deny Involvement
The National Police Service (NPS) has denied any role in the abductions. Inspector General Douglas Kanja emphasized that the police “arrest, not abduct.”
“The National Police Service is deeply concerned with allegations linking officers to these disappearances,” Kanja said, adding that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) will investigate.
However, rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have accused the police of orchestrating the abductions.
Calls for Action
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) criticized the IG’s response, labeling it “insufficient” and urging decisive action.
“If the police are not complicit, they must investigate and prosecute those responsible. Otherwise, the IG should resign,” the LSK said in a statement.
Broader Implications
Human rights advocates warn that the abductions could undermine Kenya’s democratic progress and tarnish its international reputation.
“The resurgence of enforced disappearances is a worrying trend that Kenya must urgently address,” said Amnesty International.
As pressure mounts, Marc Dillard’s call for justice and the legacy of Jimmy Carter resonate as reminders of the need for vigilance in safeguarding human rights.
