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Amnesty International Kenya has challenged President William Ruto to match his recent human rights assurances with concrete action.
The organisation says the government must address allegations of enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests and excessive use of force that have raised concern in recent years.
Amnesty Wants Action
Amnesty welcomed Ruto’s statement that no Kenyan should lose their life, freedom or dignity for criticising the government, expressing an unpopular opinion or joining a peaceful demonstration.
However, the organisation wants the government to move beyond promises and investigate reported human rights violations.
It has called for investigations into cases of enforced disappearances and demanded clear information about the fate of missing Kenyans.
Amnesty also wants victims and their families to receive justice and appropriate compensation.
Families Still Seeking Answers
The organisation said every disappearance represents a person and a family left without answers.
“These are not merely statistics. Behind every case is a person whose liberty was taken away and a family left searching for answers,” Amnesty said.
The group wants authorities to investigate every reported disappearance promptly, independently and transparently.
It also wants the government to disclose the whereabouts of people who remain missing and release anyone held unlawfully.
Focus on 2024 Protests
The demands come days after Ruto acknowledged allegations of unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances and excessive lethal force during the 2024 Gen Z protests and the 2025 anniversary demonstrations.
The President said credible allegations of human rights violations should undergo independent and transparent investigations.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights previously reported at least 63 deaths and 74 forcible disappearances during the 2024 protests.
The commission also reported that 26 people remained missing.
Amnesty Demands Accountability
Amnesty wants authorities to prosecute anyone responsible for violations where investigators find sufficient evidence.
The organisation says accountability should apply regardless of an individual’s rank or position.
It has also called for stronger command responsibility within security agencies to ensure senior officials cannot escape accountability when officers under their command commit abuses.
Amnesty argues that investigations must cover cases reported during the 2024 protests and other alleged violations reported afterward.
The organisation now wants the government to demonstrate that its commitment to human rights extends beyond public statements and results in investigations, justice and reparations for affected Kenyans.
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