The High Court has ordered the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and the National Police Service (NPS), led by Inspector General Japhet Koome, to release all abducted Kenyans held incommunicado.
In an order issued on Wednesday evening, the court directed the two security agencies to release the abducted individuals immediately and unconditionally. The court noted that more than 24 hours had passed since the abductions were reported, rendering the detentions unlawful.
“Noting that it is over twenty-four hours since the abductions complained of took place, an ORDER is hereby issued directing the respondents, their agents, and or servants, to IMMEDIATELY and UNCONDITIONALLY RELEASE the 2nd to 13th petitioners, pending the hearing and determination of this application,” read the order in part.
The court's directive came after 13 petitioners filed a case against the NIS and the Inspector General of Police, citing the abductions. The presiding judge also mandated the respondents to file responses to the application within two days of being served.
Additionally, the court ordered the release of any other individuals held incommunicado for demonstrating against the controversial piece of legislation. The High Court also required the respondents to appear before the court within two days to confirm their compliance with the orders.
“The respondents or their duly authorized representatives do appear in court on 28th June 2024 at 9 AM to confirm compliance with court order No. 2 above, and for further directions on the hearing of the application and petition,” read the statement in part.
These orders followed widespread public and civil organization outcry over the abductions and detention of influential social media users.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, Azimio leaders, led by Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka, stated that if the abducted Kenyans were not released, they would seek other avenues to hold the national government accountable. Kalonzo accused the President of adopting a hardline stance and operating outside the constitution.