Unbowed for Justice

The 2025 Missing Voices Annual Report documents 131 cases of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances in Kenya, reflecting an overall decline in violations compared to 2024. However, this apparent progress masks a worrying trend: a sharp rise in police killings and continued concerns about the use of excessive force, particularly during periods of public protest.

Key Data & Statistics
● Police killings increased by 20% from 2024
● Enforced disappearances dropped sharply by 89% compared to 2024
● June and July were the deadliest months, accounting for more than half of all killings
● Nairobi remained the deadliest county for extrajudicial killings
● Youth and young men continued to bear the brunt of police violence

Recommendations
Despite ongoing documentation and advocacy, accountability gaps persist due to weak legal frameworks, under-resourced oversight institutions, and delays in justice processes. The report calls for urgent and concrete action, including the enactment of laws to criminalise enforced disappearances, comprehensive police reforms on the use of force during protests, and stronger resourcing of oversight institutions. It also urges faster investigations and prosecutions, judicial efficiency, and the operationalisation of key legal frameworks to ensure justice and reparations for victims. At its core, the report underscores the need to safeguard civic space and restore public trust in Kenya’s justice system.