Victims of enforced disappearance shouldn't vanish into a black hole

Victims of enforced disappearance continue to seek justice, accountability and recognition from the Kenyan government. [Courtesy]

On 30 August 2026, the world will mark the 20th anniversary of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. This moment must prompt us to ask: how has the Kenyan state treated its own victims of enforced disappearance over the last year?

The United Nations defines enforced disappearance as an act of state terror. Historically associated with military dictatorships' rule, it is used by authoritarian regimes to suppress dissent by placing individuals beyond legal protection. In Kenya, recent disappearances have primarily targeted terrorism suspects, alleged criminals, and anti-government protesters, most of whom were released without charge.