The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has sharply criticized Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja over his recent dismissal of police involvement in the wave of alleged abductions occurring across the country. The LSK’s statement came after Kanja denied the police’s role in the reported disappearances, urging a more proactive stance in addressing these violations rather than simple denials.
In a statement, LSK president Faith Odhiambo expressed concern that Kanja’s remarks lacked concrete actions to combat the ongoing abduction crisis. Odhiambo stated that it was not enough for the Inspector General to merely deny police involvement without detailing specific measures to address the escalating human rights violations. “The Inspector-General appears to lack awareness of his mandate under the law or the ability to discharge it effectively. This is a grave abdication of duty that cannot be countenanced in a constitutional democracy,” she said.
The issue of abductions has been gaining attention after reports of individuals going missing in various parts of the country. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has documented at least 82 abductions since June, with 29 people still unaccounted for. December alone has seen 13 reported cases, with seven happening between December 17 and 25. Of the seven individuals abducted this month, one has been found, leaving six still missing. Among the missing are Steve Mbisi from Machakos, Billy Mwangi from Embu, and several others from Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
Kanja, on Thursday, refuted the allegations, stating that no police stations in the country were holding the reported abductees. “For avoidance of doubt, the National Police Service is not involved in any abduction, and there is no police station in the country that is holding the reported abductees,” he asserted.
However, LSK insists that the absence of police involvement should prompt a thorough investigation into the abductions. The society has called for a clear and transparent inquiry into the matter, stating that the police must take visible, demonstrable actions to protect citizens and restore public trust in law enforcement.
Odhiambo further urged the police to collaborate with other security agencies to tackle the issue of enforced disappearances, warning that failure to do so would risk emboldening perpetrators and undermining the rule of law. The LSK also called for a national dialogue to address enforced disappearances comprehensively, stressing the importance of a coordinated strategy to combat the human rights violations.
As the search for the missing individuals continues, the LSK’s call for action underscores the urgent need for accountability and transparency within the police force to ensure the protection of citizens’ rights.
