The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru has called on security agencies to take decisive action against abductions, warning that the continued incidents are making it harder for government officials to defend the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Addressing a youth empowerment event at Kamaigua Grounds in Kutus, Kirinyaga County, on Tuesday, Waiguru said President William Ruto had already issued clear instructions that abductions must end and urged security officers to enforce the directive without delay.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
She appealed to those overseeing the country’s security to carry out their responsibilities, saying frequent reports of abductions were damaging the government’s image and making it difficult for leaders to engage the public.
Waiguru also criticised oversight institutions tasked with investigating police misconduct, particularly the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), accusing it of failing to effectively address complaints linked to the recent anti-government demonstrations.
According to the governor, IPOA was established to investigate allegations against police officers, including claims of enforced disappearances and abuse of power, and should be held accountable if it fails to perform its constitutional duties.
She stressed that neither she nor the government condoned abductions, insisting that enforced disappearances can never be justified under any circumstances.
Her remarks come shortly after six young men who disappeared during the June 25 anniversary protests were found alive after allegedly being tortured and abandoned in different parts of Nairobi. Human rights groups said the victims vanished during the demonstrations before they were later discovered along Lang’ata Road and near Talanta Stadium and taken to hospital for treatment.
One of those rescued was Mathare-based social justice activist Davis Lichuma, who was reportedly found in critical condition outside Kenyatta National Hospital after allegedly being dumped there by unknown individuals. Rights organisations said he had visible injuries consistent with torture and was unable to speak when he was rescued before being admitted for specialised medical care.
The incidents have drawn renewed criticism from human rights organisations, lawyers and opposition leaders, who are demanding thorough investigations and accountability over the alleged abductions, warning that the cases have revived concerns about enforced disappearances.
Waiguru, however, cautioned against blaming the entire government for the actions of a few individuals, arguing that anyone found responsible should be prosecuted after investigations are completed.
She said, as a mother, she could never support abductions and insisted that anyone who breaks the law should face justice through the appropriate legal process.
The governor also urged Kenyans to allow independent institutions to carry out their constitutional mandates without political interference, saying only credible investigations would establish the truth and help restore public trust.
She maintained that responsibility should rest with those directly involved in any wrongdoing rather than the government as a whole, adding that leaders would continue explaining and promoting government policies respectfully because they believe wananchi will ultimately judge them fairly.
