President William Ruto has assured Kenyans that the government is fully committed to eradicating the rising cases of abductions in the country, emphasizing that the safety and security of every citizen, particularly the youth, is a priority. His remarks came amid growing public outrage over the increasing number of abductions, some of which have sparked widespread condemnation of law enforcement agencies for their perceived failure to act swiftly and decisively.
Speaking during the Genowa Governor’s Cup in Homa Bay County, Ruto pledged that the government would take all necessary measures to end these incidents, ensuring that young Kenyans could live in peace without fear. He emphasized the importance of discipline and respect among the youth, stating that “maneno ya abductions tutakomesha,” which translates to “we will put an end to abductions,” in order for the youth to live harmoniously in society.
Despite this strong commitment from the president, there has been significant controversy surrounding the ongoing abductions, with some victims being linked to controversial social media posts. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported that since June 2024, a total of 82 individuals have been abducted, with 29 still missing. December alone has seen seven new cases, contributing to public anxiety about the safety of citizens, especially in major urban centers like Nairobi, Embu, and Kajiado.
The issue has been further compounded by allegations that some of these abductions have taken place in broad daylight, captured on CCTV, yet no arrests have been made. The KNCHR’s chair, Roselyne Odede, has criticized the National Police Service (NPS) for their handling of the situation, urging them to take responsibility for the safety of all Kenyans. The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, however, has refuted claims of police involvement in the abductions, asserting that no police station is holding any of the abducted persons and that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is investigating the matter.
Ruto’s call for parental responsibility also highlighted the need for guidance and positive values to be instilled in children to ensure they do not fall prey to dangerous situations. As investigations continue, the president urged Kenyans to support the authorities by providing any relevant information to aid in the search for the missing persons.
As the government intensifies efforts to tackle these abductions, it remains to be seen whether public trust in the security agencies can be restored. The recent surge in such cases has left many citizens questioning the effectiveness of the authorities in protecting the vulnerable.
