By John Kariuki
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has sounded the alarm over a worrying rise in abductions and enforced disappearances, which have left families devastated and the nation grappling with questions about justice and accountability. In a powerful statement issued on December 26, 2024, the LSK expressed deep concern over the targeted nature of these incidents, which have affected prominent social media users and activists, including Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, and Gabriel Supeet, the latter reportedly detained at Ntulele Police Station under unclear circumstances.
The LSK underscored that these abductions constitute a direct attack on the constitutional freedoms and rights that every Kenyan is entitled to, threatening the very foundation of democracy. While acknowledging the duty of state organs to uphold law and order, the society reminded authorities that such actions must always align with constitutional safeguards and respect for human rights. Any deviation, they warned, risks undermining public trust in the justice system and eroding the rule of law.
Calling for urgent action, the LSK urged families and close associates of the victims to come forward with detailed accounts of the incidents. This, they noted, would aid in documenting the circumstances of each case, initiating legal proceedings, and advocating for accountability on both national and international platforms. Such efforts, the society emphasized, are critical to ensuring justice and deterring future violations.
Reassuring Kenyans of its commitment to upholding justice, the LSK pledged to support affected families and stand firm against the perpetrators of these heinous acts. They called on members of the public with credible information regarding the abductions to report to the LSK Secretariat or any regional office, promising swift action to hold those responsible to account.
This surge in abductions has sent shockwaves across the country, raising critical questions about the state’s role in safeguarding the rights of its citizens. It has also reignited debates on the delicate balance between maintaining national security and protecting individual freedoms. As the LSK takes the lead in pushing for justice, the public now looks to the government to respond decisively, restore confidence, and reaffirm its commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution.
The need to protect human rights and uphold the rule of law has never been more urgent. As the nation grapples with these disturbing developments, it is clear that ensuring justice for the victims and their families is not just a legal obligation but a moral imperative.