SEO Riders:
– Kenya rights groups decry wave of enforced disappearances, kidnappings, and extrajudicial killings since June 2024.
– KNCHR, HRW, Amnesty and religious leaders demand investigations, accountability, and establishment of victims’ support fund.
– Growing calls for security sector reforms as dozens remain missing and fears deepen ahead of elections.
Kenya is grappling with a sharp increase in violent incidents targeting activists, protesters, journalists, and human rights defenders—marked by abductions, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings since June 2024. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reports 60 killings and 71 abductions, many allegedly by security agents, with 26 people still missing. Human Rights Watch warns the abductions may constitute “official state policy,” citing evidence of torture and disappearance of detainees—including university students dragged from demonstrations. Among those still unaccounted for are prominent voices like bus driver Emmanuel Mukuria and activist Boniface Mwangi.
In response, civil society, religious leaders, and international missions have called for swift, transparent investigations, security sector reforms, and the creation of a compensation and victims’ fund for families . KNCHR Chair Roseline Odede emphasized the urgent need for accountability and establishment of dedicated police units to prevent future abuses. European and U.S. envoys similarly urged President Ruto to uphold constitutional rights and promptly resolve disappearances. With the 2025 general elections on the horizon, activists warn that without concrete safeguards and justice, Kenya’s democratic fabric may be further eroded.
