The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) has strongly criticised Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa over his remarks supporting abductions of government critics.
In a statement, the KHRC expressed concerns about how Kenya’s democracy and respect for the law have been shaken over the past seven months, with the government accused of targeting pro-democracy voices.
Kikuyu MP Hon Kimani Ichung’wah during a past parliamentary sitting. Photo: Kimani Ichung’wah/Facebook
During a requiem mass in Bungoma, Ichung’wa echoed claims by COTU boss Francis Atwoli, suggesting that some people faked their abductions to gain sympathy and money.
The KHRC dismissed these claims as baseless and accused Ichung’wa of trying to shift attention from the government’s alleged involvement in these kidnappings.
Other leaders were also criticised. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi said the government would use force against young critics, blaming their behaviour on poor parenting.
Kikuyu MP Hon Kimani Ichung’wah during a past event. Photo: Kimani Ichungwa Source: Facebook
The KHRC said such comments encourage fear and are meant to silence dissent.
The statement comes after five youths abducted in December were released. They had been accused of sharing satirical images of President Ruto online.
However, one blogger, Steve Mbisi, is still missing. Since June, 82 youths have been abducted, and 29 are yet to be found, according to reports.
The KHRC has now called for the resignation of Ichung’wa, Kingi, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and Police IG Douglas Kanja, saying they have failed to protect Kenyans’ rights.
The commission also wants a thorough investigation into their actions and for those found guilty to face charges and be banned from holding public office.
“These abductions and disappearances are a clear violation of our constitution. They cannot be justified under any circumstances,” the KHRC said, promising to document every abuse and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
