Human Rights Commission Reports Surge in Extrajudicial Killings and Abductions Amidst Kenyan Protests
According to a report by DW News, the Kenya National Human Rights Commission (KNHRC) has documented an alarming rise in human rights violations since mass protests erupted across the nation in June. The KNHRC reports that it has investigated 60 cases of extrajudicial killings and 71 cases of abductions and enforced disappearances following these protests, which were led predominantly by young Kenyans protesting poor governance.
The violent suppression of these protests by the police has been a focal point of concern. Activists claim the crackdown is ongoing, with individuals being illegally detained, often without formal arrest, charges, or access to legal representation. Boniface Mwangi, a well-known photojournalist and political activist, shared his harrowing experiences with DW News, describing how he has been frequently targeted and detained by the police.
Mwangi explained, “The police are never kind, and they never explain that they’re arresting you. So you get picked up, bundled in a car, and everyone is armed in the car, and they rarely talk to you or engage with you. It’s a scary experience, knowing that you can actually go and never be seen again.”
This climate of fear is exacerbated by reports of bodies being found in quarries or rivers, or disappearing altogether, leaving families in anguish. The June protests were sparked by a proposed government tax increase, which led to demonstrations in Nairobi. The government’s response has been internationally condemned for its brutality.
In response to these concerns, President William Ruto, in August, promised to end the abductions and take decisive action. He stated, “I want to know the names because I will take firm and decisive action. As I talk to you today, I don’t have a single name of somebody who has been abducted or disappeared.”
Despite these assurances, the KNHRC’s findings indicate a continuing pattern of abductions, with 71 cases recorded since June. Dr. Bernard Mogesa, head of the KNHRC, emphasized the chilling effect on lawful dissent, noting that many activists now live in fear for their lives. “Those who have been quite vocal and speaking on issues are likely to go into hiding for fear of their lives,” Mogesa stated, calling for stronger protections for those who speak out.
The international community has also voiced its concerns. Several European diplomatic missions in Nairobi, including those of Germany and the UK, issued an open letter last month, highlighting ongoing arbitrary arrests and enforced disappearances. They noted President Ruto’s commitment to holding those responsible accountable and emphasized the need for concrete action.
DW News, which reported on these developments, sought comments from the Kenyan police service and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority but did not receive a response.
Despite the risks, Boniface Mwangi remains determined to continue his activism. “I think I want a country where there’s rule of law, where everyone is treated justly, a humane country, a less corrupt country, a country where everyone stands an equal chance in life,” Mwangi told DW News. His vision for a just and equitable Kenya drives his resolve, despite the personal dangers he faces.
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