25 leaders allied to Gachagua demand commission to investigate abductions, emergence of criminal gangs

A total of 25 leaders allied with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have called for the establishment of an independent public commission of inquiry to investigate escalating cases of abductions, the resurgence of criminal gangs, and allegations of state capture in Kenya.

In a statement on Tuesday, the leader led by Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thangwa raised concerns over the growing trend of enforced disappearances, police politicisation, and the re-emergence of organised criminal gangs.

They expressed alarm over these developments, stating that they threaten the safety, dignity, and democratic rights of Kenyan citizens.

“These heinous acts have resulted in numerous victims suffering from death, physical harm, psychological trauma, or enforced silence,” they said.

The leaders highlighted the troubling case of four young men who were recently released after being abducted under mysterious circumstances.

Bernard Kavuli, a content creator who was abducted in Ngong on December 22, was found in Kitale town, over 388 kilometres from his residence.  Peter Muteti, abducted from Uthiru on December 21, was found in the Nairobi city centre, more than 17 kilometres from his home.

Benjamin Kiplangat was found in Machakos, more than 79 kilometres from Kikuyu, where he lives and which was his point of abduction. His brother Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull said he was released by his abductors in Vihiga County. He was abducted in Nairobi.

24-year-old Billy Mwangi said he walked to his parents' home in Embu County. He was abducted on December 22 in the same county.

According to the leaders, their simultaneous release in different counties suggests a well-coordinated effort.

“These incidents are not isolated; they reflect a disturbing trend of escalating state-sponsored abductions, violence, and human rights abuses. We call for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding these abductions, as well as appropriate action against all individuals involved,” they said.

“We do so with a lot of hesitation since the police have denied responsibility, they have demonstrated lack of impartiality, they are conflicted and remaining beholden to the executive despite them being an independent institution under our Constitution.”

The leaders also pointed to the unresolved torture and disappearance of three individuals from Kitengela, whose 32-day ordeal has yet to result in any arrests or accountability.

The leaders criticised law enforcement agencies, claiming the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has distanced himself from the abductions, citing ignorance about the perpetrators.

They noted that the Inspector General of Police acknowledged the abductions but denied the police’s involvement.

President William Ruto has also been accused of making vague promises to stop the abductions while indirectly blaming parents for not instilling discipline in their children.

The leaders termed the abductions as systematic attempts to silence critics of the government. They called for investigations into the politicisation of law enforcement, organised criminal attacks on Gachagua’s supporters, and state capture, including misuse of public resources and land grabbing in areas such as Ngurunga Farm, Gikumari, Ndabibi, and Nakuru Memorial Hospital.

The leaders further called on Parliament and county assemblies to convene special sessions to address these pressing issues. They also emphasised the need for accountability mechanisms within law enforcement to ensure public safety.

“We would like to thank Kenyans, who, through public pressure and threats of protests, advocated for the release of the abductees. This collective action demonstrates that we can hold this rogue government accountable,” the leaders said.

They welcomed the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) decision to open a portal for reporting human rights abuses by state actors and urged Kenyans to continue raising their voices in pursuit of justice and accountability.

The leaders also demanded the immediate release of all remaining abductees and reiterated their commitment to advocating for transparency, justice, and the rule of law.

The group accused the government of fostering an environment of fear and lawlessness through the re-emergence of criminal gangs like Mungiki.

They also highlighted recent incidents, including the chaotic disruption of a funeral in Limuru and the teargassing of attendees at a Shamata event in Nyandarua County, as examples of politically motivated violence targeting Gachagua’s supporters.

They expressed their support for the establishment of an independent public commission of inquiry to address these challenges and restore public trust in Kenyan institutions.

The leaders include Senator Karungo, Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo, Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia, Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, Gatanga MP Edward Muriu, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Senator James Murango and Kangema MP Peter Kihungi.

Others are Naivasha MP Jane Kihara, Kirinyaga MP Njeri Maina, Subukia MP Samuel Gachobe, Juja MP George Koimburi, Embakasi Central MP Mejja Donk Gathiru, Kigumo MP Joseph Munyoro, Maragua MP Mary Wamaua, Starehe MP Amos Mwago, Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, Kajiado Senator Seki Ole Kanaar, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, Tetu MP Geoffrey Wandeto, and Kajiado South MP Samuel Parachina.