News Right Now: Forced Disappearance

There has been political disturbances in Kenya recently with protests surrounding recent kidnappings of individuals criticizing the government. In June, a finance bill which proposed fees or taxes on items and services including internet data, fuel, bank transfers and diapers was passed. This bill caused an uproar from the youth of Kenya, sparking protests by mainly Gen Z citizens. Since this uproar, around 83 protestors have gone missing. A couple weeks ago, a peaceful protest was carried out to protest these abductions, and dozens of protestors were arrested by police.

Citizens of Kenya performed sit-down protests, holding up signs and shouting chants in opposition to the abductions. They were met with police throwing tear gas canisters into crowds, beatings, and assault. A prominent lawmaker and one-time presidential candidate was also abducted during this protest as a participant of the sit-down. Although police have continued to deny their involvement in these abductions, this type of behavior where the Kenyan government abducts its own people in efforts to suppress discontentment and spark fear is not new for Kenya. Political activist and analyst Jim India has commented saying, ‘"Historically, especially during protests, detainees have been released by the police, which creates a clear connection between the abductions and law enforcement," India said.’

President William Ruto of Kenya has acknowledged the fear this has caused amongst young people speaking out against the government after previously denying the abductions altogether. Imagine the fear the people of Kenya must live in, with the government acting with such baselessness and cruelty to the young generation of its citizens, engaging in acts of criminals. Kenya’s citizens are stuck between living under a government of criminals and living amongst gang violence which both have resorted to acts such as abduction.

The only system on this Earth which equally serves and provides for its people in the most just way possible as ordained by the One who created us, is the system of Islam. Allah’s (swt) Shariah treats people with kindness, generosity, and looks after all their affairs when implemented completely and we have multiple examples from history to prove this. During the Caliphate of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (ra), the bayt al Maal (state treasury) was overflowing and it became difficult to find people to distribute zakat to. Islam is the only beacon of hope for all of mankind which will indefinitely uphold human dignity, honor, life, blood and property under shariah implementation. It will be a shield for everyone, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, a protection from all forms of oppression. It is only Islam through the establishment of the Khilafah Rashidah which will grant honor and protection to the lives of individuals.

Ummah Voice Podcast