Raila Odinga Condemns Enforced Disappearances

By Jefferson Volka

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has criticized the Kenya Kwanza government for failing to take action to stop enforced abductions and disappearances.

The Impact of Poor Economic Policies

Speaking at St. Peter’s Parish Nyamira ACK Church in Bondo, he emphasized that demonstrations caused by rejected economic policies have led to innocent lives being lost. Raila described the government’s approach as backward . He pointed out that allowing people to disappear and remain incommunicado shows poor governance.

Families in Pain

The former Prime Minister sympathized with families suffering because their loved ones were abducted by uniformed officers and taken to unknown locations. He urged the government to act and prevent a recurrence of events like the Nyayo House torture chambers.

The Importance of Rule of Law

He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting human rights. He argued that enforced disappearances weaken public trust in the government and its institutions.

Psychological and Economic Burdens

Raila highlighted the heavy psychological and financial toll on families whose breadwinners or loved ones were abducted. He called on civil society organizations, religious institutions, and international human rights groups to demand accountability and push for justice.

Historical Context: Nyayo House Torture

Between 1986 and 1992, security forces detained and tortured over 150 pro-democracy activists in Nyayo House cells. Survivors of these ordeals have shared harrowing accounts, including inhumane conditions, physical abuse, and mental anguish. By June 2024, reports indicated 71 cases of abductions and enforced disappearances had been investigated by the Kenyan National Commission on Human Rights. Many cases allegedly involve police officers, raising concerns about oversight within security forces.

Gruesome Discoveries

Authorities have found bodies of missing individuals in rivers, forests, and abandoned sites. These bodies often show signs of torture, mutilation, or dismemberment. Such gruesome discoveries have sparked widespread outrage and fear. Activists and human rights defenders are calling for an independent commission to investigate and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of rank.

A Call to Action

Raila urged Kenyans to stay vigilant and demand justice for the victims. He warned that silence and inaction would embolden those responsible.Additionally, he encouraged collaboration among citizens, the media, and advocacy groups to maintain pressure on the government. Furthermore, he emphasized the need to raise awareness and ensure the prevention of such atrocities in the future