Ruto under fire over remarks on abductions

President William Ruto during the Groundbreaking for the construction of Narok International Airport project in Narok North Constituency on May 6, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

President William Ruto's comments downplaying the scale of abductions and enforced disappearances in the country have drawn sharp criticism.

Speaking during a joint press conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb on Monday, Ruto said all Kenyans previously reported missing under mysterious circumstances had been reunited with their families.

"All the people who disappeared or were abducted have been brought back to their homes. I have given clarity that nothing of that nature will happen again," said the president.

But critics, including former Chief Justice David Maraga, and the families of the missing, dismissed the claims as misleading and insensitive.

"Such utterances are deeply hurtful, especially to parents still mourning the loss of their children," said Maraga.

"How long shall the lives of innocent Kenyans be so devalued and dismissed? We must demand that the promises of the Constitution be taken seriously and human life be held sacred."

Brian Odhiambo's family, among others, say they have yet to locate their missing kin.

Bernard Kavuli, a young Kenyan who was reportedly abducted late last year and later released, responded: "By the time we were freed on January 6, we left behind at least 25 people in the same place we were detained. This is recorded in my affidavit. Ruto must stop thinking he leads cows."

Lawyer and political activist Miguna Miguna called for an independent judicial inquiry into all abductions, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings since independence.

Former MP Kabando wa Kabando added: "Justice demands that he [Ruto] list all victims, reasons for abductions, perpetrators, and compensations for these injustices."

Social media users were equally critical. "One time he swore there were no abductions. Now he casually admits abductees were returned. Which is it?" wrote user Eve Miana.

As the government attempts to clarify its stance, some Kenyans are now questioning whether the president's remarks, amounting to admission of unlawful actions, warrants an impeachment.