By BRIAN MUSYOKA
A section of leaders from Embu County has expressed grave concern over the recent spate of abductions and enforced disappearances, calling for immediate investigations to unmask the perpetrators and bring justice to the affected families. Their calls come as the region reels from the mysterious abduction of Billy Mwangi, a young social media influencer who was forcibly taken two weeks ago in Embu town.
Led by Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi, the leaders urged the government to take swift and decisive action, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these disturbing incidents. Senator Mundigi appealed to residents to exercise patience and allow investigators to dig deeper into the cases. He also called on all stakeholders to collaborate in seeking solutions, urging locals to suspend planned demonstrations.
“This issue of abductions is a matter of national concern. We need thorough investigations and accountability to ensure such occurrences are halted,” Mundigi said during a press briefing.
Businessman Ken Mugo echoed these sentiments, questioning the surge in abductions and urging the government to assert its authority to protect citizens. He called for a systemic overhaul to identify those responsible and prevent further disappearances.
"You cannot respond to a mosquito bite with a hammer. Looking at the age of this young boys, these are kids who need more guidance,"said Mugo.
He called on the government to use its machinery and bring to halt the abduction saga.
Makima Ward MCA Philip Nzangi and his Mwea counterpart Job Itumo expressed their outrage, particularly over reports of children being abducted without a trace. Nzangi criticized the government for failing to adequately address the matter, stating that the Inspector General's assurance that police are not involved was insufficient.
“These families are in agony. The government must come clean and provide concrete answers,” Nzangi said.
On Friday, tensions boiled over as residents staged demonstrations in Embu town, demanding Mwangi’s immediate release and accountability from authorities. Protesters blocked roads, lit tires, and marched through the streets, vowing to continue their demonstrations until Mwangi is found. Another round of protests is expected tomorrow.
Mwangi’s disappearance has brought national attention to a broader issue of enforced disappearances in Kenya. Recent data from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) reveals that 82 people have been abducted since June 2024, with 29 still unaccounted for. Rights groups have condemned these acts as violations of human rights, urging the government to ensure the safety of its citizens.
As Embu residents await answers, the call for transparency and justice grows louder. The community hopes that the ongoing investigations will provide clarity and restore a sense of security to a region now gripped by fear.
MWINGI TIMES for timely and authoritative news.
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