Former Chief Justice David Maraga has penned a New Year’s message to Kenyans condemning the recent spate of abductions.
Through his message the former CJ also called out for the immediate release of the youth who according to him are held unlawfully.
“This year has not been easy for many families. The killing, maiming, and abduction of young Kenyans put to serious test our institutions. It demands a moral response. If we are truly a people sworn to the sanctity of life and the dignity of every citizen, then we must stand bold in the truth of our Constitution. I condemn the killing, torture, and abductions and call for the immediate release of the youth still held unlawfully. Our politics must never again be this heartless and uncaring,” Maraga stated.
The former CJ has moreover called for increased adherence to the Constitution, noting that it provided clear and defined structures for governance, ethics, and the rule of law in the coming year.
According to Maraga, heeding the law of the land would only come about if basic human values and principles took precedence.
“As we usher in the New Year, I call upon all of us to reflect on the promise that we made to ourselves 14 years ago. We defined a clear path for our future. We set down the values of governance, ethics, and standards of excellence as our guiding light.However, these values and principles can only be realised when they become true to you and me when fairness and humility are the first things we meet at the doors of our offices when truth and justice are the ink that runs through our pens at work when human dignity and responsibility are the forces that fuel our work,” Maraga stated.
Maraga urged the government to ensure that the coming year of 2025 would be a year of accountability after a tumultuous 2024 challenging them to follow the Constitution, the rule of law and justice.
His message came as the country continues to record cases of alleged abductions and enforced disappearances.
The abductions are said to be due to increased criticism of President Ruto’s government as Kenyans demand for better leadership and service delivery.
