NAIROBI, Kenya- As Kenya grapples with a surge in enforced disappearances, the response from some political leaders has been dismissive at best—and offensive at worst.
Despite 82 cases of abductions documented by the Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNCHR) since June 2024, some politicians have chosen to downplay the crisis, shifting blame, spreading conspiracy theories, and mocking the plight of the missing and their families.
“There have been thirteen more cases of abductions or enforced disappearances in the last three months bringing to eighty-two the total cases since June 2024. Seven of the recent abduction cases were reported in the month of December 2024 with six of them still missing, bringing to twenty-nine (29) the total number of persons still missing since June 2024,” the Commission said in a statement.
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Among those abducted were six outspoken youths who had used their social media platforms to criticize the government and President William Ruto.
Many of these critics shared satirical images or posts, challenging the administration’s policies and decisions.
Yet, instead of acknowledging the growing evidence, some leaders have resorted to deflecting responsibility.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa claimed that some missing individuals were merely “hiding in Airbnbs.”
But the most outrageous comments came from COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, who accused victims of orchestrating their own abductions for financial gain.
His remarks came during a funeral attended by the President, turning a solemn event into a platform for political posturing.
“There are people who are abducting themselves so they can get money from international organizations,” Atwoli declared, adding that parents must teach their children to respect the President and refrain from misusing social media.
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Governor George Natembeya of Trans-Nzoia County broke ranks, urging the President to end the abductions and uphold the rule of law.
However, his appeal was met with ridicule and accusations of hypocrisy.
The National Assembly Majority Leader dismissed his concerns, saying, “If you know people are being abducted, share the information with the police but do not come here to shout.”
Ichungwa accused Natembeya of complicity in extra-judicial killings during the previous administration, led by Uhuru Kenyatta.
“Do not think because you are a governor, you will chest-thump here,” Ichungwa said. “Respect others, and you will be respected.”
Observers say the dismissive attitude of the leaders around the President trivializes a deeply troubling reality.
Families of the abducted youths have been looking for answers without success.
Human Rights organizations warn that the ongoing abductions are eroding Kenya’s democratic space and creating a climate of fear.
