Nancy Odindo, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over four years of experience covering politics, news, and feature stories across digital and print media in Kenya.

- President William Ruto is on a week-long development tour of the county and the larger Northern region amid escalating security concerns following the abduction of five chiefs.

The chiefs, from Wargadud Division, were reportedly kidnapped by suspected Al-Shabaab militants while en route to Mandera South Sub-County offices for a meeting to finalise preparations for Ruto’s visit.

During his address in Mandera on Tuesday, February 4, the president chose to speak from atop his vehicle rather than using the official presidential dais.

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He condemned the militants and directed Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli to expedite investigations and ensure the safe return of the abducted administrators.

He further reassured residents that the insecurity in the region would not disrupt his plans, emphasising his commitment to staying in Mandera overnight.

However, his decision to avoid the presidential dais sparked mixed reactions among Kenyans, with some questioning whether he felt unsafe.

@GatungoNelson claimed:

"Aliogopa Al-Shabab🤣."

@Meghja1 asked:

"Kwani, will he be abducted?"

@kaibseddie stated:

"So the president was all along seated in his air-conditioned car as the other guys spoke? Weird. Was there a security threat, and are all the other guys of lesser importance? Why not call the whole thing off if there was? Know your worth!"

@RambuguRakuon argued:

"That's his choice; why should it be news? He can also address them while in his chopper."

@MrBiwott observed:

"That part of HE @WilliamsRuto waiting for the car to position itself was very vulnerable and a serious security lapse. We need more proactive bodies around the president. Security elements must be in character at all times."

@johnnde35291263 said:

"The car is armoured and proof of many weapons."

@gichurusadiq asked:

"How can citizens in Mandera feel secure when the president himself doesn't feel secure with all the security apparatus at his disposal?"

Despite the speculation, Ruto maintained that his presence in Mandera demonstrated the government's commitment to restoring stability in the volatile region.

In other news, Bob Njagi and the Longton brothers, who were abducted in Kitengela, have claimed that their lives are in danger.

They alleged that since their release on September 20, 2024, they have been followed by vehicles they believe belong to security officers. However, their pleas to the police have gone unanswered.

Through the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC), the trio has called on the International Criminal Court (ICC) to intervene.

They emphasised the need for a thorough investigation into their case and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice, citing concerns over the rising cases of enforced disappearances in the country.

Source: TUKO.co.ke