Former Chief Justice and Green Thinking Action Party leader David Maraga has condemned the alleged abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich, describing the incident as a serious threat to constitutional freedoms, press freedom and Kenya’s democracy.
Maraga said the reported abduction by masked individuals in plain clothes reflected the kind of systemic lawlessness that the Police Reforms Taskforce, which he chaired, sought to address.
In a statement, Maraga described the alleged incident as a “severe affront” to Kiprotich’s constitutional rights and warned against the continued existence of what he referred to as clandestine police units and alleged illegal operations.
His remarks come amid growing concern over reports of abductions and enforced disappearances in Kenya, particularly where security agencies are accused of operating outside established legal procedures.
Maraga said the recommendations contained in the report of the Police Reforms Taskforce he chaired remain relevant in addressing concerns over accountability and the conduct of security agencies.
He called for the immediate dismantling of what he described as “illegal killer squads and clandestine units”, arguing that security operations must be conducted within the limits of the Constitution and the law.
“The commanders of these illegal operations must be held individually accountable for these crimes,” Maraga said, stressing that those responsible for unlawful conduct should face personal accountability.
The former Chief Justice also linked the issue to his broader political message, calling for what he termed an “Ukombozi government” anchored on constitutionalism and respect for the rule of law.
Maraga said true political liberation must be based on constitutional principles, using the hashtags #Ukombozi and #Ukatiba to emphasise his call for a government guided by the Constitution.
The statement adds to mounting calls from political leaders, journalists and rights advocates for greater accountability in the conduct of security operations and stronger protection of press freedom.
The circumstances surrounding Kiprotich’s alleged abduction, including the identities and affiliations of those involved, remain subject to official investigation and verification.
Maraga’s intervention is likely to add pressure on authorities to clarify what happened and ensure that any individuals found to have acted unlawfully are held accountable.
