Police brutality /STAR ILLUSTRATION
The Social Justice Centres Working Group (SJCWG) has called on the government to urgently account for all reported missing persons and investigate alleged enforced disappearances and unlawful killings, saying impunity continues to undermine Kenya's democracy.
In a statement released to coincide with the Saba Saba 2026 commemorations, the rights organisation said the anniversary should serve as a reminder of the country's commitment to democracy, constitutionalism and the protection of fundamental human rights.
"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," the statement said.
The group accused the State of responding to public concerns through intimidation, excessive security deployments and restrictions on movement instead of dialogue.
"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 hard-working Kenyans," the statement read.
The organisation expressed concern over reported cases of enforced disappearances, saying at least five people reported missing last month remain unaccounted for.
"We are particularly alarmed that at least five victims of reported enforced disappearances from last month alone remain missing," the group said, adding that the continued uncertainty facing affected families has eroded public confidence in state institutions.
SJCWG further warned that enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests and allegations of excessive use of force should not become accepted in a constitutional democracy.
"The continued pattern of enforced disappearances, unlawful arrests, and allegations of excessive use of force cannot become the new normal in a constitutional democracy," the statement said.
The organisation also defended the role of civil society groups, journalists, grassroots human rights defenders and community justice centres, saying they play a critical role in documenting human rights violations and promoting democratic accountability.
Calling for accountability, the group urged the government to disclose the whereabouts of all reported missing persons, conduct independent investigations into alleged disappearances and unlawful killings and ensure those found responsible face justice.
"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," the statement said.
As the country marked Saba Saba, the group reiterated its solidarity with victims and their families, declaring: "The missing must be accounted for. Justice must prevail. The rule of law must be restored."
