Kenya’s Public Service Minister, Justin Muturi, has publicly accused the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of abducting his son during last year’s anti-government protests. The claim marks a direct challenge to the government, as the minister stated that President William Ruto personally intervened to secure his son’s release.
In a written statement submitted to the police on Tuesday, Muturi detailed the harrowing events of June 23, 2024. He described his son, Leslie Muturi, being abducted by armed, hooded individuals. The minister said he immediately sought help from President Ruto, who, after consulting NIS director-general Noordin Haji, ordered the release of Leslie.
Muturi’s statement is the first to link President Ruto to the ongoing allegations of abductions during the protests. These protests, sparked by frustration over tax hikes and corruption, led to the deaths of over 60 people. Human rights groups have long accused the state of forcibly detaining activists, but Ruto has previously denied any involvement.
In response, Silvanus Osoro Onyiego, a senior lawmaker in Ruto’s party, rejected Muturi’s account. Onyiego suggested that Leslie Muturi was not abducted but arrested in connection to drugs. He also called for the minister’s resignation or an apology, threatening impeachment.
This revelation adds further complexity to the investigation into the alleged abductions, some of which are suspected to be connected to a covert police unit. The incident is part of a broader investigation into the role of security forces in silencing dissent during last year’s protests.