Safina Party Leader Jimi Wanjigi has sharply criticized President William Ruto’s administration over alleged illegal abductions and extrajudicial killings that reportedly occurred during recent anti-government protests.
Addressing the press in Nairobi, Wanjigi, flanked by his lawyer Willis Otieno and other party leaders, urged Kenyans to demand accountability and justice for these serious accusations.
Wanjigi condemned the current regime, claiming that President Ruto is directly responsible for the alleged abuses. “For the avoidance of doubt, the president is solely responsible for the abductions, enforced disappearances, and murdering of the young people of this country,” Wanjigi asserted. He accused the administration of using fear tactics to suppress dissent.
The business man called on the Inspector General of Police to uphold constitutional duties and respect human rights, reminding him of the need for independence and professionalism.
He dismissed the president’s promises to address these issues as insincere, accusing Ruto of mocking the suffering families of victims. “President Ruto is hypocritically mocking, laughing and demeaning the abducted whose loved ones are crying daily,” Wanjigi stated.
The press conference comes amid ongoing tensions between Wanjigi and the current government, highlighted by a police raid on his residence on August 8, 2024. Wanjigi’s comments reflect growing frustration with the administration’s handling of protests, which have reportedly been met with excessive force, including the use of live ammunition and numerous abductions.
Wanjigi emphasized that these practices not only violate constitutional and international human rights but also traumatize affected families. “Abductions are a gross violation of international rights and are a crime against humanity,” he asserted.
He urged for a renewed commitment to justice and adherence to the law by President Ruto, stressing that the current administration has failed to live up to its constitutional and moral obligations.