Isiolo governor demands release of missing officials, warns of rise in enforced disappearances
Calling on human rights groups, oversight bodies, and citizens to speak out, Abdi said Kenyans must not remain silent in the face of such violations.
Isiolo Governor Abdi Guyo has demanded the immediate release of two men who were allegedly abducted in separate incidents, calling the cases part of a disturbing trend that threatens the rights and safety of Kenyans.
The two, Abdullahi Bosso and Ali Godana, were reportedly taken under unclear circumstances, with no official word on their whereabouts.
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In a statement, Governor Abdi said Ali, the acting Director of Revenue in Isiolo County, was taken by unknown individuals at 5 pm last Saturday outside his home.
This came just a day after Abdullahi was reportedly seized by people believed to be security officers on the Kinna-Kulamawe road on Friday, May 9, around 1 pm.
Abdi said the families of the two have received no information from authorities on their location or condition, leaving them in deep anguish.
“These are not isolated incidents. They represent a worrying pattern of enforced disappearances that threaten the safety, dignity, and constitutional rights of all Kenyans,” the governor stated.
Abdi criticised security officers, saying their actions go against President William Ruto’s earlier promise to end abductions.
“Such actions directly contradict President William Ruto’s public assurance that his administration will neither tolerate nor engage in abductions,” he stated.
The governor said Abdullahi should either be released immediately or presented in court, stressing that the Constitution guarantees due process. He also urged authorities to reveal where Ali is being held and to inform his family of his condition.
Calling on human rights groups, oversight bodies, and citizens to speak out, Abdi said Kenyans must not remain silent in the face of such violations.
“Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done,” he said.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has confirmed that investigations into the growing number of abductions are ongoing.
Its chairperson, Issack Hassan, told Members of Parliament that efforts are underway to identify those behind the abductions.
"As to who is abducting Kenyans, we are still investigating,” Issack stated during a session with the National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Security.
He noted that the investigation is being slowed down by a lack of cooperation from victims.
"The challenge has been that the victims are not coming to us to give evidence," he said.
Issack said IPOA may consider a public inquiry to provide a proper platform for victims and witnesses to speak.
“The IG said the police have not abducted anyone, but we may need to open a public inquiry into this matter,” he explained.
This follows a recent statement by President Ruto, who claimed there are no missing persons and that all abducted Kenyans have returned home.
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