The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has demanded the resignation of several state officers over their controversial remarks regarding the ongoing issue of abductions in Kenya. The commission called for the immediate resignation of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and Members of Parliament Oscar Sudi, John Waluke, and William Kamket. The KHRC pointed out that these officials had made statements at a time when the nation was grappling with the escalating issue of enforced disappearances.
The commission condemned the statements as harmful to the rule of law, especially given the sensitivity of the current situation where abductions have intensified. KHRC particularly criticized Kindiki for his previous comments justifying the use of excessive force by police against unarmed protestors, a stance that the commission argued has set a dangerous precedent in the current government. Ichung’wah was also criticized for his attack on Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, accusing him of orchestrating abductions during the previous administration, despite similar accusations now being directed at the current government.
Sudi and Kingi were also accused of endorsing the abduction of individuals critical of the government, particularly those sharing AI-generated images of President William Ruto. Sudi suggested that if he were in charge of the Interior Ministry, he would have dealt with such individuals harshly, reflecting a tone of aggression towards dissent. Kamket, similarly, suggested that the youths posting such content would face dire consequences, further stoking concerns about government overreach.
KHRC also called for the resignation of Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja, accusing him of failing to prevent the abductions, and demanded an independent investigation into the politicians’ statements and their possible involvement in such crimes. The commission emphasized that those found responsible for abductions and extrajudicial killings must be prosecuted and barred from holding public office.
As the country awaits answers on the abductions, the KHRC’s call for accountability reflects growing public concern about the erosion of civil liberties in Kenya under the current government.
