CS Muturi Condemns Govt Over Abductions, Calls for Open Debate

Nairobi – Cabinet Secretary for Public Service and Human Capital Development, Justin Muturi, has publicly criticized the Kenyan security sector for its apparent inaction regarding the ongoing abductions. During a media briefing on January 12, 2025, Muturi highlighted the discrepancy between the security forces’ denial of involvement and their failure to prevent these abductions, which he noted are occurring “publicly in broad daylight.”

Muturi shared a personal experience, revealing that his son was among those abducted. “My son was abducted and disappeared. I was not sure whether he was alive or dead,” he said, recounting the distressing period where he was unable to locate his son despite multiple inquiries. His son was eventually released after more than six months without any charges being filed against him.

The Cabinet Secretary emphasized the importance of democratic principles, stating, “If youths have issues with the government that they want to raise, let us allow them to do so because that is what democracy is all about. We are a democratic county. It is our duty as government to ensure that everybody lives freely and is able to say what they think.”

Muturi’s comments come at a time when there is increasing public concern over security practices and the government’s responsibility towards its citizens. He stressed that his personal experience as a victim positioned within the government compelled him to speak out. “Since I am also a victim while serving in this government, I have taken this unusual step so that abductions and extra-judicial activities can be debated in the country in order to find a solution,” Muturi explained.

He warned of the potential consequences of such unchecked actions, suggesting that they could “plunge the country into chaos and anarchy.” This statement echoes a broader conversation trending on social media platforms, where there’s significant public outcry and demand for accountability regarding government actions.

Muturi’s call for an open debate on these issues marks a significant moment, signaling a possible shift or at least a moment of reflection within the government about its policies on security and civil liberties. His position as a Cabinet Secretary lends weight to the urgency of addressing these concerns, potentially prompting other officials and civil society to engage more actively in finding solutions to prevent such violations in the future.