Disappearance of Critics Sparks Fears of State-Sponsored Abductions in Kenya

The reported abduction of over 80 government critics in Kenya over the past six months has ignited public outrage and fears of a return to the country's history of state-sponsored disappearances. A judge is set to imprison top security officials for contempt of court if they fail to account for the alleged kidnappings during a hearing scheduled for Monday.

The alarming trend follows nationwide protests against proposed tax hikes that began last June, with the Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights documenting at least 24 individuals still unaccounted for. Government officials deny the allegations of kidnapping and illegal detention, yet many citizens recall the dark era under former President Daniel arap Moi, raising concerns about a potential resurgence of such abuses.

Notable cases include that of Billy Mwangi, a 24-year-old college student and vocal government critic, who was abducted in December and later released. His return, while a relief for his family, has left him traumatized and reluctant to discuss his ordeal. Similar experiences have been reported by the Longton brothers, who were held for 32 days and subjected to violence. They have since alleged that their detention was a form of government coercion aimed at silencing dissent.

Amid increasing public scrutiny, the Kenyan government maintains that organized crime could be behind the abductions, distancing itself from direct responsibility. President William Ruto has pledged to address the issue and restore public trust, responding to both domestic anger and international concern over the treatment of political activists.

Activists and families of the missing are now advocating for international intervention, calling on the Attorney General to refer abduction cases to the International Criminal Court as fears continue to mount about the safety of dissenters in the country.