By Faith Anene, Kakamega
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has strongly urged the country’s security agencies, including the Office of the Inspector General (IG), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and Internal Security Organs, to launch a thorough investigation into the alarming rise in youth abductions and their subsequent deaths.
Speaking at the official handing over of a newly constructed tuition block at St. Stephen Namasoli Secondary School in Kwisero Constituency, Wetangu’la expressed his deep concern over the growing number of abductions, with victims’ bodies later being found in various parts of the country, including the notorious River Yala.
“The police have distanced themselves from these crimes, but we want answers. Who are these criminal elements in our midst, unlawfully detaining people, causing their disappearance, and ultimately leaving their bodies to be discovered in remote, dangerous areas?” Wetangula asked
He went on: “We need a comprehensive investigation to identify and arrest those responsible for these heinous acts,”
The Speaker emphasized that the Kenya Kwanza government had made a firm commitment to tackle such crimes, assuring Kenyans that those found guilty would be held accountable, with full respect for human rights.
“The DPP, who hails from here in Kakamega, must step up and ensure a thorough investigation is launched immediately. We cannot allow these abductions to tarnish the reputation of our country,” Wetang’ula said.
Wetang’ula also addressed regional security issues, notably the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
He noted that, while the DRC may seem distant, its instability has far-reaching consequences for Kenya’s economy. “Congo is an important business partner for Kenya, especially when you consider that our biggest exports go to Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, and South Sudan,” Wetang’ula explained. “The violence and instability in the DRC are directly affecting our economy.”
The Speaker condemned the loss of life in the DRC, which has been widely reported on social media, stressing that these deaths were not only a humanitarian crisis but also an economic threat to Kenya. “The killings and destruction in Congo undermine the security of the entire region, including Kenya,” he said.
Drawing from his extensive diplomatic experience as the former Minister for Foreign Affairs and Chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council, Wetang’ula urged the African Union and regional leaders to rally behind President William Ruto’s efforts in seeking peace and stability in the DRC.
“We must extend our support to President Ruto, who is leading the charge as the Chairperson of the East African Community. We need to come together to halt the senseless killings and protect the lives of innocent people,” Wetang’ula appealed.
Wetang’ula called on fellow leaders to join the President’s efforts to engage in dialogue and stop the suffering in the region.
“The loss of life, the destruction of property, and the erosion of security undermine not only the people but the entire economy of the region. It is time for action, and it must come now,” Wetang’ula urged.
