Gideon Moi condemns abduction of government critics

Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi said the abductions cannot continue unchecked as distressed families agonise over the whereabouts of their loved ones. [File, Standard]

Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi has called for an immediate end to the ongoing abductions targeting young people critical of the government.

Moi said the government must respect the rule of law and allow young people to express themselves. He defended the youth, saying they are not criminals but citizens advocating for a country that reflects their aspirations.

Moi noted that in recent weeks, there has been an alarming rise in abductions and forced disappearances of young people who use digital platforms to fulfil their civic duties and express dissatisfaction with the management of the nation’s affairs.

He emphasised that the freedoms of speech, assembly, and association, as enshrined in the Constitution, cannot be curtailed based on the whims of those in power.

“These young Kenyans are not criminals. They are simply agitating for a country that reflects their aspirations — where the rule of law prevails, public institutions prioritise the common good, quality social services are accessible, and the economy creates opportunities for growth and prosperity for all,” Moi stated.

He described the abductions as deliberate and desperate attempts by the government to suppress dissent, discourage civic engagement, and instil a climate of fear to evade public scrutiny and accountability.

Moi said the youth are opposed to the government’s attempts to impose its vision on them while excluding them from decisions that profoundly affect their lives. [Julius Chepkwony]

“As such, it is incumbent on the government to understand that it cannot silence dissent through abductions but rather by making the system work for the people,” he said.

The disturbing wave of abductions, Moi added, cannot continue unchecked as distressed families agonise over the whereabouts of their loved ones. He urged the government to account for those who are missing.

“We condemn these acts and call on the government to produce these individuals before a court of competent jurisdiction if they are deemed to have committed any crime under the law,” he stated.