Businessman and former presidential candidate Jimi Wanjigi has accused President William Ruto of being directly responsible for a series of abductions and killings that have occurred during recent anti-government protests in Kenya. In a statement released on Tuesday, Wanjigi condemned the President’s administration for allegedly using state machinery to spread terror, targeting civilians through enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
Wanjigi’s allegations come amidst a backdrop of ongoing unrest in Kenya, where demonstrations against the government have turned violent. The businessman, known for his outspoken criticism of the current administration, described President Ruto as a “Constitution delinquent” who has violated both the Constitution of Kenya and his oath of office.
According to Wanjigi, the police and military have been used as instruments of oppression, resulting in the deaths of more than 60 youths and over 100 abductions. He accused President Ruto of turning the security forces into a “political militia” that has systematically terrorized Kenyans exercising their constitutional rights.
“President Ruto has not only violated the Constitution of Kenya but also contravened the oath of office he took,” Wanjigi stated. “For the avoidance of doubt, President Ruto is solely responsible for the abductions, enforced disappearances, and murdering of the young people of this country Gen Z. He has turned the police into his political militia.”
Drawing parallels with the 2007 Post-Election Violence, where Ruto faced charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC), Wanjigi accused the President of employing dictatorial tactics reminiscent of historical despots. He compared Ruto’s actions to those of Adolf Hitler, Slobodan Milosevic, Pol Pot, Idi Amin, and Omar Al-Bashir, describing them as cruel and tyrannical.
Wanjigi’s statement also highlighted the plight of families affected by the recent violence. He expressed deep sympathy for the relatives of those who have been abducted or killed, emphasizing the emotional toll on families facing the uncertainty of enforced disappearances.
“The only crime they have committed is exercising their constitutional and democratic right peacefully and unarmed,” Wanjigi said. “We must never yield to Ruto’s tyranny.”
The businessman called for collective action to address the crisis, urging Kenyans to demand truth, accountability, and justice. He also vowed to pursue legal action both locally and internationally to hold the government accountable for the deaths and disappearances.
In a direct appeal, Wanjigi demanded the release of activist Bob Njagi and the Jamil brothers, Longton and Aslam, who were abducted two weeks ago in Kitengela by individuals believed to be police officers. He criticized the government for what he described as a deliberate attempt to silence dissent through violence and intimidation.
“I stand in solidarity and empathy with all the families here and those who did not make it to come for the sons and daughters who have been abducted and disappeared,” Wanjigi declared. “It is devastating for a family and friends when a loved one disappears. Yet this is the harsh reality facing Kenya now.”
Wanjigi’s statement reflects the growing tension in Kenya as the government faces mounting pressure over its handling of protests and civil unrest. With calls for accountability gaining momentum, the nation remains on edge, grappling with the implications of Wanjigi’s severe accusations against the highest office in the land.
