Migori County Senator Eddy Oketch has raised alarm over the unresolved number of abduction cases across the country, calling it a disturbing reflection of Kenya’s deteriorating security apparatus and lack of command responsibility.

His remarks have added to the ongoing national discourse about human rights, security sector reform, and the need for transparent governance in the face of growing disillusionment among Kenyans.

Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Oketch challenged the government’s silence and inaction in the face of these incidents.

“No Kenyan should ever be subjected to abduction. If such incidents occur and go unanswered, it is a clear sign that our security infrastructure has failed,” Oketch said.

The senator’s remarks come amid growing public concern over a series of reported abductions in recent months, some reportedly involving state actors. Oketch pointed to these cases as symptomatic of deeper governance issues.

“It’s disheartening to keep seeing headlines about abductions. We’ve seen cases where abductions are allegedly carried out by authorities, and others where individuals go missing in situations that appear to be staged or self-orchestrated,” he said.

He noted that regardless of the context, whether the victims were genuinely kidnapped by rogue agents or disappeared under questionable circumstances, the net effect is the same: a profound erosion of public trust in the state.

“Either way, it reflects poorly on us as a nation when we cannot account for the whereabouts of our citizens, whether they were taken by state actors or disappeared under suspicious circumstances,” said the Migori Senator.

Fire underperforming govt officials

Oketch also aimed at the top levels of government, questioning the President’s reluctance to act against underperforming Cabinet Secretaries.

“Why is the President not comfortable doing away with the ministers who are not performing?” he posed, adding that failure to take decisive action only deepens public frustration and widens the accountability gap.

His comments also echo a growing chorus of criticism from civil society and opposition leaders who have accused the government of turning a blind eye to violations of civil liberties and the apparent impunity of state security agents.

He said the actions should reflect mounting concern over the state of governance and the rule of law in Kenya, particularly in relation to how the state responds or fails to respond when its citizens vanish without a trace.

“This is not just about abductions. It’s about accountability. It’s about leadership. It’s about the role of government in protecting its people and upholding the Constitution,” he stressed.