Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly acknowledged instances of abuse of power by the country’s security forces, following widespread protests over alleged kidnappings and disappearances.
In his New Year’s address, Ruto admitted to “excessive and extrajudicial actions” by security personnel but refrained from giving specifics. His remarks come in the wake of youth-led demonstrations triggered by the violent repression of protests in June and July. The protests, which sought answers for a spate of abductions, were met with heavy-handed tactics, including tear gas and mass arrests.
Ruto emphasized the balance between freedom and public safety, stating, “Every freedom has its limits, and public safety and order must always supersede the desire for unchecked liberty.”
Human rights groups have criticized the government for failing to thoroughly investigate the disappearances. A court recently ordered the immediate release of five individuals allegedly abducted by security forces or an explanation under oath by the police. However, no individuals were presented in court, and the police inspector general sent a representative instead.
The disappearances largely involve young critics of Ruto’s government, including individuals who shared a controversial AI-generated image of the president in a coffin. Ruto linked such incidents to a rise in digital manipulation and harmful online behavior, warning of a decline in societal values.
Human Rights Watch and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights have reported a troubling increase in abductions, with seven cases recorded this month, six of which remain unresolved. Since June, 29 out of 82 reported disappearances are still unaccounted for, intensifying pressure on the government and security forces to address the crisis.