Kenya's Accountability Crisis: When Following Orders Leads to Torture and Murder

Kenya: Accountability for Torture and Murder – A Conversation with Hussein Khalid Nairobi, Kenya – May 28, 2025 – Hussein Khalid, CEO of VOCAL Africa, a prominent human rights organization, recently spoke out about the lack of accountability for illegal orders given to security forces in Kenya. In an interview on Spice FM's "The Situation Room," Khalid highlighted alarming cases where officers claim they were simply following orders when committing acts of torture or murder. He stated, "The Constitution says you cannot hide behind orders from above. If you are issued an illegal order—like ‘go and kill’—you are supposed to say no." This statement underscores the critical issue of individual responsibility within the Kenyan security apparatus. Khalid's concerns extend to the political leadership. He criticized the government's approach to abductions, arguing that statements promising to deal with perpetrators only if "people can be orderly" send the wrong message. He emphasized the need for leaders to abide by the law and hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of public order. "You can’t just say, ‘If people can be orderly, we will end abductions,’ because that is the message you are sending to people out there." His words point to a deeper systemic problem requiring immediate attention. The interview, while focusing on the gravity of the situation, also offers a glimmer of hope. Khalid's call for individual accountability and adherence to the rule of law provides a framework for positive change. The discussion serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and the necessity for strong political will to address these critical issues.