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President William Ruto’s Economic Advisor, Moses Kuria has called on citizens to lead a petition against abductions in the country. 

In a statement shared via his official X account on Friday, December 27, 2024, Kuria urged the public to collect upto 10 million signatures for the petition.  

“More than ever before, it is time the civil society to lead a two-in-one public petition for putting a stop to unlawful abductions and responsible use of freedoms. Let us get 10 million signatures . And do not be one sided,” he wrote. 

Kuria’s statement comes amid growing concerns over the surge of abductions of youths criticizing President William Ruto. 

Various leaders, citizens and human rights groups have condemned the abductions and implored the government to intervene. 

Police issued a statement denying their involvement in the act saying no police station in the country is holding the reported abductees. 

The officers similarly defended themselves noting that they are only mandated to arrest criminal offenders and not abduct them.

“The National Police Service is deeply concerned with the ongoing allegations that police officers are involved in abductions of persons in Kenya. For clarity, the constitutional mandate of the National Police Service is not to abduct, but arrest criminal offenders. 

“For avoidance of doubt, the National Police Service is not involved in any abduction, and there is no police station in the country that is holding the reported abductees,” Police IG Douglas Kanja said on Thursday, December 26, 2024. 

He also called on members of the public to stop accusing the police service as it is likely to ruin their reputation. 

“Whereas Kenya is a democratic country that guarantees freedom of expression, freedom not only comes with certain limitations but should at all times be exercised with utmost responsibility,” he added.