Dennis Itumbi, the Head of the Creative Economy and Special Projects in the Executive Office of the President, has issued a public apology to victims of abductions linked to the Gen Z protests of 2024 and 2025. Speaking during a local podcast on Thursday, October 9, 2025, Itumbi strongly condemned the abductions that have occurred since the Kenya Kwanza government came into power in 2022.
“I am sincerely sorry for anyone who has undergone an abduction or illegal arrest, because some of those things that were put as abductions were actually arrests,” he said.
While acknowledging that some reported abductions may have been cases of illegal arrests later misrepresented, Itumbi emphasized that no abduction or illegal arrest can ever be justified. He cited the case of Billy Mwangi from Embu, who was abducted during the protests but later returned home safely.
“All abductions are bad. We wish all abductions to end because it should not happen to anyone, including my enemy,” he added.
Drawing from his personal experience, Itumbi recalled his own abduction and torture in the lead-up to the 2022 General Election, when he was a vocal supporter of then Deputy President William Ruto. That incident, he said, shaped his strong stance against enforced disappearances and political intimidation.
Human rights groups and many Kenyans online have praised Itumbi’s admission, terming it a rare moment of reflection from a senior government official. However, critics argue that the government must move beyond apologies and ensure justice for victims who remain missing or traumatized.
Itumbi’s remarks come amid renewed public outcry over alleged police excesses during the Gen Z demonstrations, which saw several young protesters reportedly abducted or detained without due process. His statement has since gone viral, sparking debate about the state’s commitment to upholding human rights and accountability.
