Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has condemned what he described as the growing cases of abductions, torture, enforced disappearances, and intimidation of citizens in Kenya, calling on the government to uphold constitutional rights and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

In a statement released on Friday, June 26, to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the senator said no Kenyan should be forced to live in fear for exercising their constitutional freedoms or expressing dissenting political views.

“Today, as the world marks the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, I join millions across the globe in standing in solidarity with survivors of torture, enforced disappearances, unlawful detention, and all forms of cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment,” Thang’wa said.

The senator noted that the United Nations recognises torture as a crime against humanity that cannot be justified under any circumstances.

He also cited the Constitution of Kenya, arguing that freedom from torture is an absolute right protected under Article 25 and cannot be limited or suspended.

“There are no exceptions, no circumstances, and no authority that can lawfully justify torture, enforced disappearance, or cruel treatment,” he said.

According to Thang’wa, the international day serves as a reminder to governments to protect human dignity, uphold fundamental freedoms and hold perpetrators of human rights violations accountable.

Concern over abductions and disappearances

The Kiambu senator expressed concern over what he described as increasing reports of unlawful abductions, enforced disappearances and torture targeting Kenyans.

He said it was disturbing that political activists, young people participating in peaceful demonstrations and leaders with opposing political views continued to face alleged harassment, arbitrary arrests and violence.

“It is deeply disturbing that political activists, young people exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest, and leaders holding dissenting political views continue to face harassment, arbitrary arrests and violence,” he stated.

His remarks come amid heightened public debate over the conduct of security agencies during recent demonstrations, with several human rights organisations and political leaders raising concerns over alleged rights violations.

Warns against violence during protests

While defending the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression, Thang’wa also condemned reports that criminal groups had infiltrated demonstrations.

He said allegations that organised gangs and sponsored goons had taken advantage of peaceful protests to destroy property and endanger lives were equally troubling.

According to the senator, such actions undermine the legitimate grievances of citizens and detract from the constitutional right to peaceful protest.

“No Kenyan should live in fear for expressing an opinion, demanding accountability, or participating in peaceful civic action,” he said.

Calls for accountability

Thang’wa urged all state agencies to uphold the Constitution, respect the rule of law, and protect the rights of every Kenyan regardless of their political affiliation or views.

He called for swift investigations and prosecution of individuals responsible for abductions, torture, enforced disappearances, and violence.

“I therefore call upon all state agencies to uphold the Constitution, respect the rule of law, protect the rights of all citizens, and ensure that those responsible for abductions, torture, disappearances, and violence are brought to justice,” he said.

The senator argued that democracy is strengthened by protecting dissent rather than suppressing it.

“Our democracy is strengthened not by silencing dissent but by listening to citizens and safeguarding their freedoms,” he added.