Kenya Faces Outcry Over Abductions of Government Critics

Rights groups and international envoys call for accountability as reports link security forces to enforced disappearances since June protests.

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reports at least 82 government critics have been abducted since anti-government protests began in June, with 29 still missing.
Rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, allege police involvement in the abductions, which authorities deny while investigations are ongoing.
Recent cases involve individuals who shared AI-generated images of President William Ruto, with witnesses claiming some abductions were carried out by individuals in police uniforms.
Protests earlier this year were fueled by anger over proposed tax hikes under the Finance Bill 2024, leading to violent crackdowns and allegations of human rights abuses.
International concern grows, with European envoys urging President Ruto to address enforced disappearances and ensure justice for victims.