The High Court was transformed into a makeshift cinema on Monday, as video clips depicting abductions were played in a petition spearheaded by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). The case highlights the rising tide of abductions in Kenya, which have sparked public outrage and intense scrutiny.
One of the clips featured President William Ruto declaring, “Tutasimamisha hizo abductions”, underlining the government’s awareness of the crisis. Another chilling video showed veteran journalist Macharia Gaitho being forcibly taken from Karen Police Station. The footage displayed individuals in civilian clothes shoving him into a white Probox, as uniformed police officers stood by without intervening.
Another video presented to the court depicted blogger Peter Muteti’s abduction on December 21 in Uthiru, Nairobi County. Masked individuals are seen dragging him away while concealing their identities, a recurring pattern in the reported incidents.
The petitioners, represented by LSK Boss Faith Odhiambo, have provided several video links as evidence to demonstrate the alarming manner in which arrests and detentions are conducted. Despite court orders mandating the production of all missing persons, two individuals Steven Kavingo and another petitioner remain unaccounted for.
Odhiambo expressed frustration with state agencies, stating, “The duty bearers have failed to produce the two in court… they must be held accountable.”
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), which has joined the case, condemned the abductions, calling them a gross violation of fundamental rights. Advocate Lynette Mwachire revealed that abductees, including Billy Mwangi and others, were subjected to torture during their captivity. Some were stripped naked, had their hair shaved, and were warned against speaking out about their ordeal under threat of re-capture.
Released victims were given nominal transport fees ranging between KSh 2,000 and KSh 3,500 and instructed to remain silent.
KNCHR and LSK allege that the state is complicit in these abductions and must be held accountable. Judge Bahati Mwamuye has yet to issue a final ruling, but the mounting evidence has intensified pressure on authorities to address the alarming trend.
The hearing is a stark reminder of the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Kenya amidst an escalating crisis.
