DCI Summons key figures over allegations of abductions and extrajudicial killings

By Robert Mutasi 

The DCI has summoned several public figures associated with the recent allegations reports on enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. 

The immediate notice comes after public pronouncements on Sunday, October 27, 2024, pointed to an alarming trend in human rights violations in the country.

The letter is addressed to the concerned parties, notably referencing their meeting that was attended by Chief Justice Emeritus Willy Mutunga, Hon. Kabando wa Kabando, and other prominent individuals who expressed their deep concerns about the alleged recurrence of these horrific incidents. 

The move by DCI hints at the weight of the allegations leveled and a wider investigation into the matter.

It was during this statement day that leaders in a news conference shared eight documented cases of abductions in different regions across Kenya.

They had a worrying picture painting citizens living in fear, with many reportedly disappearing into thin air.

"We can no longer ignore the surge in enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings. It is essential that action be taken to protect the lives of innocent Kenyans," Chief Justice Emeritus Mutunga said.

Hon. Kabando wa Kabando, while addressing the media, urged the government to take immediate steps to enhance mechanisms for human rights protection and bring the culture of impunity to an end that permits such acts to be carried out.

"We refuse to accept that our society has retrogressed to where citizens can be picked up indiscriminately without any accountability," he said.

The summons by the DCI foreshadows a probable change in the legal dynamics as the authorities seek statements and evidence relating to the accusations against security agencies.

In support of this, the DCI will most likely request more information from the summoning parties and any document that touches on the cases of disappearance reported.

Human rights activists have welcomed the move but say they are still skeptical, maintaining that this should result in actual action and justice for families of the victims.

As a result, there have been growing demands for the situation to come into the international limelight, calling for transparent investigations into the alleged actions of law enforcers.