LSK demands immediate disclosure of abductees' locations, invites testimonies from families

In a statement on Friday, LSK noted that the state's silence on the abductions is unbecoming and the lack of accountability continues to erode public trust.

It called for transparency from the state, arguing that any arrest should strictly adhere to the rule of law and uphold the principles of accountability, and human dignity.

"Failure to act decisively risks emboldening perpetrators and fostering a culture of impunity, which directly undermines human rights, constitutionalism, and the rule of law," said the statement in part.

While condemning the spate of abductions, LSK expressed commitment to ensure that justice is served and invited families of abductees to give their testimonies that will aid in a watertight law action.

"This data will enable us to document the circumstances surrounding each case of abduction and disappearance, initiate appropriate legal proceedings where rights violations have occurred [and] facilitate advocacy at both national and international forums to hold perpetrators accountable," LSK added.

The Society further scoffed at the denial of police involvement in the abductions by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, noting that he lacks awareness of his mandate under the law.

"This is a grave abdication of duty that cannot be countenanced in a constitutional democracy. The office of the Inspector-General is entrusted with the responsibility to ensure the safety and security of all citizens," noted LSK.

"If the holder of this office is incapable of fulfilling that mandate, it would be in the best interest of the nation for him to either rise to the occasion and discharge his duties effectively or tender his resignation forthwith."

Social media users Steve Kavingo Mbisi, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, Rony Kiplang’at and Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull been abducted in December, bringing the total number of abductions since June to 82.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) says that out of the reported cases, 29 people are still missing.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied links to the abduction of Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull.

This after Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah alleged that Kibet was abducted after leaving his office on December 24, 2024, adding that he saw Subaru vehicles outside his office on the said date when he was meeting Kibet among other people interested in his presidential plans. 

DCI has noted that said that the vehicle in question does not have ties to them and that the allegations are "not only unfounded but also sensationalizes a sensitive issue that is currently under thorough investigation."