Waiguru calls out IPOA for failing to reign on police involved in abductions

Speaking at a public event, Waiguru said the reported abductions, allegedly carried out by individuals suspected to be police officers, were damaging the government's image and making it increasingly difficult for leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration to defend its record.

She argued that IPOA had fallen short of its mandate to promote accountability and professionalism within the National Police Service (NPS) by failing to investigate and act against officers implicated in the alleged incidents.

"I have said this several times, and even the President has called for a stop to these abductions. IPOA must do its work because you are making our work very difficult. It is hard to defend the government if abductions become the news every day," Waiguru said.

The governor called on the oversight body to investigate the allegations thoroughly and ensure that any police officers found responsible for abductions or enforced disappearances are prosecuted.

She maintained that IPOA should be held accountable for fulfilling its constitutional role of providing civilian oversight over the police.

Waiguru described abductions as unlawful, inhumane and a violation of human rights, saying such acts had no place in society because they inflicted immense suffering on victims and their families.

"As a mother, I can never be on the side of abductions. I can never be, and there is no one in this government who can support abductions," she said.

She added that IPOA has the legal mandate and investigative powers necessary to establish the truth behind the alleged abductions and bring those responsible to justice.

Waiguru further warned that continued reports of abductions were providing political ammunition to the opposition ahead of the next general election.

"IPOA, do your job. Abductions are not part of this government, and I can never be party to abductions. There are those who want to use this issue of abductions as a campaign tool. On our part, we are campaigning for this government peacefully, and we know people will listen to us," she said.