SOCIAL JUSTICE MOVEMENT CONDEMNS THE CONTINUED BRUTALITY, ENFORCED DISAPPEARANCES, AND IMPUNITY AS KENYA MARKS SABA SABA 2026

As Kenyans commemorate Saba Saba 2026, the Social Justice Working Group joins millions across the country in reaffirming our commitment to democracy, constitutionalism, and the protection of fundamental human rights. Saba Saba remains a historic symbol of the people’s struggle against authoritarianism and for a Kenya founded on justice, accountability, and the rule of law. Sadly, decades later, many of the same concerns continue to confront our nation.

We strongly condemn the continued brutality meted out against citizens exercising their constitutional rights. Instead of fostering dialogue and addressing legitimate public concerns, the State has increasingly resorted to intimidation, excessive security deployments, restrictions on movement, and actions that disrupt the livelihoods of hardworking Kenyans. These measures do not resolve the country’s challenges; they only deepen public mistrust and undermine democratic governance.

We are particularly alarmed that at least five victims of reported enforced disappearances from last month alone remain missing. Their families continue to endure unimaginable pain and uncertainty while waiting for answers from the authorities. Every passing day without credible information or transparent investigations compounds their suffering and erodes public confidence in state institutions. We demand a clear and public explanation regarding the whereabouts of all persons whose disappearances have been reported and immediate, independent investigations into every case.

The continued pattern of enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests, and allegations of excessive use of force cannot become the new normal in a constitutional democracy. Every Kenyan has the right to life, liberty, security of the person, and due process as guaranteed by the Constitution. These rights are not privileges granted by the State but constitutional guarantees that must be respected, protected, and fulfilled at all times.

We reject attempts to portray civil society organizations, grassroots human rights defenders, community justice centres, journalists, and social movements as the source of Kenya’s problems. They are not. These organizations play a vital role in documenting human rights violations, supporting victims, promoting civic education, and strengthening democratic accountability. Their work is essential to the protection of constitutional freedoms.

The real crisis confronting Kenya is the persistent culture of impunity within sections of the security sector, where allegations of abuse are too often met with denial instead of independent investigations and accountability. No institution or public officer should be above the law. The credibility of our justice system depends on equal application of the law and meaningful accountability whenever violations occur.

We therefore call upon the Government of Kenya to immediately disclose the whereabouts of all persons reported missing, ensure prompt and impartial investigations into all allegations of enforced disappearances and unlawful killings, hold those responsible accountable through lawful processes, and restore full respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.
As we mark Saba Saba, we stand in solidarity with victims, survivors, and families still searching for their loved ones. We reaffirm that democracy cannot thrive where fear replaces freedom, where impunity replaces justice, and where accountability is sacrificed for political expediency.

The missing must be accounted for. Justice must prevail. The rule of law must be restored.

Issued by:

National Leadership of Social Justice Centres Working Group (SJCWG)

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