Maraga condemns abductions of Kenyans, urges adherence to the rule of law

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned the recent surge in abductions, killings, and torture of Kenyans across the country, suspected to be perpetrated by state agents.

In his New Year message to Kenyans, Maraga criticised the violations of the constitution and demanded the immediate release of those held unlawfully.

He urged the nation to reaffirm its commitment to constitutional values and justice enshrined in the Constitution that was promulgated in 2010.

“This year has not been easy for many families. The killing, maiming, and abduction of young Kenyans has put to serious test our institutions. It demands a moral response. If we are truly a people sworn to the sanctity of life and the dignity of every citizen, then we must stand bold in the truth of our Constitution,” Maraga said.

“I condemn the killing, torture, and the abductions and call for the immediate release of the youth still held unlawfully. Our politics must never again be this heartless and uncaring,” said the former CJ.

While reflecting on Kenya’s Constitution, Maraga highlighted its transformative vision and the aspirations of Kenyans to confront impunity and push for accountability.

Gen Z protests

He linked this vision to the June-July 2024 national demonstrations, popularly known as Gen Z protests, which he described as a collective effort to address systemic injustices and neglect of public concerns.

“The cries of pain and outrage we saw this year were sparked by the erosion of basic dignity and economic mismanagement. We must urgently address the decline in vital sectors such as education and health. We must reset the economy to create decent jobs for our youth and restructure our tax regime in order to guarantee fairness and sustainability of the tax burden. This is possible. The country has done this before and can do it again,” he said.

Maraga also commended the resilience of Kenyans who have held public institutions accountable despite facing challenges, including oppressive government responses.

He emphasised the need for public office bearers to ensure that the instruments of power are not misused.

Truth and justice

“As we usher in the New Year, I call upon all of us to reflect on the promise that we made to ourselves 14 years ago. We defined a clear path for our future. We set down the values of governance, ethics, and standards of excellence as our guiding light. However, these values and principles can only be realised when they become true to you and me; when fairness and humility are the first thing we meet at the doors of our offices, when truth and justice are the ink that runs through our pens at work; when human dignity and responsibility are the forces that fuel our work,” he said.

Maraga further stressed that 2025 should be a year of accountability, especially for those who caused suffering in 2024.

He called for renewed dedication to constitutionalism, justice, and the rule of law to safeguard Kenya’s collective destiny.

“I wish all Kenyans a great and prosperous New Year. God bless you, and God bless Kenya,” he said.