Kenya: Amid Outcry over Kidnappings, Ruto Acknowledges Security Abuses
In the wake of a string of contentious kidnappings that have provoked massive protests, President William Ruto has finally addressed the misuse of authority by Kenya’s security services. Ruto acknowledged that security personnel had “instances of excessive and extrajudicial actions in a statement made during his New Year’s address on Tuesday, but he did not elaborate.
His remarks follow rallies spearheaded by young people about alleged kidnappings by security personnel, especially following the brutal suppression of protests in June and July. Tear gas and mass detentions were among the harsh measures used to quell these protests, which were intended to address the growing concern over disappearances.
However, it is important to remember that all freedoms have their boundaries, and the pursuit of unbridled liberty must always yield to the interests of public safety and order,” Ruto remarked.
Human rights advocates have voiced alarm over what they believe to be the government’s lack of a thorough investigation into these disappearances amid persistent suspicions. A recent court decision ordered the immediate release of five persons who had allegedly been kidnapped by security personnel or required the police to testify under oath and explain their actions.
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