Kenya African National Union (KANU) chairman Gideon Moi has criticised the government following the abduction of former Nandi Hills Member of Parliament Alfred Keter.
Keter, who is a vocal government critic, confirmed his abduction on Sunday, June 30, 2024, and Moi believes this is an attempt to create public fear as Kenya Kwanza faces intense opposition.
“Today, the nation has witnessed the abduction of former Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter in Nairobi, another incident in a series of proliferating gangland-type kidnappings.
“This alarming trend, including the abduction of numerous young people that we have consistently and unequivocally condemned, heralds a grim future for the rule of law that Kenya prides itself on.
“Since the onset of the vehement opposition to oppressive economic policies mounted by young people, some of them remain missing, held incommunicado, while their families are distressed about the whereabouts of their loved ones.
“This desperate attempt to instil fear in the public and silence dissent is unwarranted, uncalled for, and has no place in our nation,” the former Baringo senator said in a statement posted on X on Sunday, June 30, 2024.
Rule of law
Moi said that the law-enforcing agencies must carry out arrests in a manner that respects the guidelines provided by the Constitution.
“The constitution and the laws of our land are very clear regarding the arrests of any individual suspected of committing a crime.
“Such individuals must be informed of the reasons for their arrest, accorded access to legal representation, and produced before a court of competent jurisdiction within twenty-four hours to stand trial.
“Therefore, we urge the authorities to uphold the rule of law, ensure the safety of all its citizens, and release anyone being held unlawfully in any part of the country,” the former Baringo County Senator continued.
Keter joined young people who protested against the Finance Bill 2024 in Nairobi and told them not to relent, especially in pursuit of calling out the MPs who supported the unpopular bill.
President Ruto did not assent to the bill even after getting popular support in the National Assembly; instead, he withdrew it and called on the youth to engage in a national dialogue with him.