Immediate Former Migori Women Rep Dr Pamella Odhiambo.Pool
The debate over the establishment of a commission of inquiry to investigate the recent spate of alleged abductions in the country has sparked significant divergence among politicians and experts, with many questioning the feasibility of such a move without genuine political goodwill.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies have strongly backed the call for a public inquiry into the alleged disappearances of youths. Gachagua, speaking on Tuesday, highlighted that a public inquiry would be the best approach to resolving the growing mystery surrounding the abductions. He reaffirmed his stance, advocating for the creation of an independent Commission of Inquiry, underscoring the need for transparency in addressing these grave concerns.
“Abductions and extra-judicial killings that have been happening are clearly state-sanctioned. This call for an open process to investigate them will provide an open and transparent forum for the whole world to see the extent to which this regime is willing to go to stifle independent voices that are brave enough to correct or criticize them,” Gachagua stated. He also called for Kenyans of goodwill to offer their support to the families of the victims, including providing necessary counseling services for those affected by these distressing events.
Political analyst Alexander Nyamboga, however, raised concerns regarding the success of such an inquiry in the absence of political will. He warned that even if a commission were established, its findings and recommendations would hold little weight without genuine political backing. “Unless there is goodwill, even if such a commission were to be formed, its findings and recommendations would be meaningless,” Nyamboga emphasized.
University lecturer and researcher Omondi Onyango weighed in, stating that the formation of a commission could play a critical role in dispelling any doubts surrounding the abductions. Onyango acknowledged that while previous commissions of inquiry have faced challenges in implementing their recommendations, they nevertheless provided the public with crucial insights. “Only implementation of such reports has failed, but during the open inquiries, Kenyans got to understand the findings of the commissions,” Onyango said.
The government has come under intense scrutiny in the wake of these abductions, with senior officials consistently denying any state involvement. Some politicians have suggested that the abductions may be politically motivated, a claim that has been rejected by Gachagua’s allies, who continue to demand an open, independent inquiry.
University of Nairobi lecturer Samwel Siringi highlighted the importance of political will for any inquiry to result in meaningful accountability. Reflecting on the failure of past commissions of inquiry, Siringi stated that the lack of implementation has undermined their impact. “Experience has taught us better lessons, and when you look at past commissions of inquiry, you would realize that not much became of them, with most of them yet to be implemented,” Siringi noted.
Dr. Pamella Odhiambo, former Migori Women Representative, cautioned that the success of any inquiry depends heavily on the commitment of political leaders, particularly those in positions of power. She acknowledged that while establishing an inquiry may be necessary, it requires a genuine dedication to justice. “It may be the best way to go, but is it realistic given the political antagonism on the national stage? It would require a lot of introspection,” Dr. Odhiambo added.
The call for a Commission of Inquiry into the abductions continues to generate significant debate, with divisions emerging between political figures and experts. While Gachagua and his allies advocate for transparency and accountability, experts warn that political dynamics must shift for any real change to occur.
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and various civil society organizations continue to press for justice for the victims and demand an open and transparent investigation into the alleged abductions.
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