The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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William Kabogo, the nominee for ICT and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary, has criticized Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi’s remarks on abductions, calling them “very irresponsible.” Kabogo suggested that Muturi should seek a private discussion with President William Ruto regarding the matter.
During his vetting by the National Assembly Committee on Appointments, Kabogo voiced his disapproval of Muturi’s approach, advising that if Muturi disagrees with the government, he should either raise the issue with the President or resign if he feels unable to do so.
“If I were in his position, I would take my concerns directly to the President or, if afraid of that, bring it up in Cabinet,” Kabogo said. “If I’m still unsatisfied, I would resign because I cannot support what the government is doing on abductions, but that’s what politicians tend to do,” he added.
Regarding Muturi’s perspective, the Public Service Cabinet Secretary has recently filed a statement with the police about his son’s alleged abduction last year. He expressed frustration that the authorities had not provided any clarification on the incident. Muturi has also called for a national dialogue to address the rising number of abductions in the country.
Speaking at a press conference in Nairobi, Muturi emphasized the growing frequency of abductions and the lack of accountability from security agencies. He criticized the police for denying involvement in the cases despite the rise in such incidents.
Human rights organizations have documented over 40 abductions since June 2024, especially during the youth protests against President Ruto’s tax policies. In December 2024, seven youths were abducted, allegedly related to satirical cartoons targeting the President, but were later released under public pressure.
Muturi stressed the need for a national conversation to address these abductions, suggesting a forum where victims can share their experiences. Despite the release of the abducted youths, public pressure on the government continues to rise, demanding action. While President Ruto and security officials have denied involvement, they have not offered any explanation for the lack of arrests or accountability regarding the abductions.
Muturi concluded, “Now that the security forces have denied involvement, we expect to see action against those responsible for the abductions, which has not happened. This is why I am calling for a national dialogue.”
