The Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K) is deeply concerned by the continued practice of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests, despite President Ruto’s promise to end this practice.

We urgently call upon President William Ruto to fulfil his legal obligation to uphold and protect the Constitution and end the harrowing practice of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests.

On August 17, Muslims for Human Rights (MUHURI) board member Khelef Khalifa was arbitrarily
arrested for insisting the police follow the recent court order banning the deployment of masked
officers during routine police duties.

We reiterate article 49 of the constitution of Kenya, which protects the rights of all arrested persons, including access to legal assistance and clear information on reasons surrounding the arrest.

We call upon the Inspector General of Police to hold to account police officers who executed the unlawful arrest and uphold constitutional procedures when effecting arrests.

On August 19, Bob Njagi, Aslam Longton, and Jamil Longton were abducted in broad daylight following the Kitengela protests.

It has been eleven days since the three individuals were separated from their families in unclear circumstances in total disregard of the rule of law and fundamental human rights.

We call upon the Inspector General of Police to investigate and reveal the identities of the men who abducted Bob, Aslam, and Jamil and have them presented before a court of competent jurisdiction in line with constitutional provisions and orders issued by the High Court in HCCHRPET/E436/2024.

We urge President Ruto to uphold his promise and quickly address enforced disappearances,
abductions, and arbitrary arrests and ensure that all state agencies abide by the law when executing
arrests.

The pain and suffering endured by victims and their families must come to an end.

The government must take immediate steps to hold those responsible for these violations accountable and prevent further occurrences. The current leadership on this matter is crucial in restoring justice and
upholding the human rights of all Kenyans.

We call on the National Assembly to remain seized by and act on these constitutional violations and
enact legislation to protect Kenyans against forceful disappearances, investigate and hold accountable
those responsible for enforced disappearances.

Background

Arbitrary arrests, abductions, and forced disappearances of Kenyans bearing dissenting opinions and
views against the government have been on the rise since the protests began in June 2023.

President William Ruto has repeatedly spoken against this practice. In January 2023, he disclosed that he had fired former DCI boss George Kinoti due to the alarming rise in cases of forced disappearances and police murders in the country.

This gave hope to many Kenyans who have suffered from this brutal practice. The President's
commitment was further reinforced during his inaugural X space, where he emphasized police officers
must identify themselves and declare the reason for arrest when detaining someone.