The claims, which have been circulating among certain individuals, suggest that the RIB unfairly accused over 150 people, including Rwandans and foreigners, of being involved in the bank’s fraud, without sufficient evidence or proper legal procedures.
The accusations stem from a 2023 investigation into the misuse of Mastercard prepaid multicurrency cards, a service introduced by I&M Bank.
The bank had marketed the cards as a way for customers to exchange Rwandan Francs into various foreign currencies at favourable rates.
According to RIB, some individuals exploited the system by deceiving others into providing personal information, which was then used to obtain multiple cards and carry out fraudulent transactions. The stolen funds amounted to approximately $10.26 million.
Following the discovery, RIB launched an investigation, and a number of suspects were placed under investigation. Some were arrested, while others fled the country.
A total of 148 suspects have been pursued, and over 2.27 billion Rwandan Francs have been recovered, along with other assets, including properties purchased with the stolen money.
Despite the progress in the case, several individuals have claimed that they were wrongly accused and victimized by the RIB’s actions.
Among the claims, one individual, through a post on X, alleged that the investigation was manipulated by some corrupt officials who abused their power for personal gain.
However, RIB has firmly rejected these allegations, stating that its actions have always been based on law and evidence. The bureau maintains that it followed proper procedures throughout the investigation and that any claims of injustice are being used to deflect attention from the true perpetrators.
“We are committed to upholding the law and ensuring that all individuals involved in illegal activities are held accountable,” RIB said while reacting to the social media seeking President Paul Kagame’s intervention.
“The allegations of wrongful targeting are baseless and part of a broader attempt to discredit our efforts.”
RIB assures the public that the investigation is ongoing, with continued efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
The forecast highlights the likelihood of average conditions in most regions, with a few areas expected to experience deviations from the Long-Term Mean (LTM).
The detailed forecast provides essential insights for farmers, planners, and citizens preparing for the month ahead.
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Rainfall during January is expected to range between 0 and 180 mm.
“The highest amounts, ranging between 150 and 180 mm, are anticipated in many parts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke Districts, as well as western parts of Nyamaguru and Nyamagabe Districts,” the agency stated.
According to the agency, the regions, including parts of southern Karongi District near Nyungwe National Park, could see slightly above-average rainfall.
Moderate rainfall ranging between 120 and 150 mm is expected in areas such as Rutsiro, Rubavu, Nyabihu, and Huye Districts, while districts like Rulindo, Kamonyi, and Gicumbi will receive between 90 and 120 mm.
Eastern parts of the country, including areas of Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Rwamagana, are projected to experience significantly less rainfall, ranging between 0 and 30 mm.
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January’s maximum temperatures are set to range between 18°C and 30°C.
The hottest areas include Bugesera District, several parts of Kigali City, and Nyagatare, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. Cooler temperatures of 18°C to 20°C are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and western Rubavu Districts.
Minimum temperatures will vary between 8°C and 16°C.
“The lowest minimum temperatures, ranging from 8°C to 10°C, are expected in Nyabihu, Musanze, and Rubavu Districts, as well as parts of northern Burera District,” the report noted.
Meanwhile, areas like Nyagatare, Gatsibo, and Kirehe are predicted to experience relatively higher nighttime temperatures of 14°C to 16°C.
{{Wind Speed Forecast
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Moderate to strong winds ranging between 4 and 10 m/s are anticipated nationwide. Strong winds of 8 to 10 m/s are expected in Nyamaguru, Nyamagabe, and parts of Rusizi Districts, while most of the country will experience moderate winds of 6 to 8 m/s.
The report highlights specific zones likely to see higher wind speeds, including parts of Kigali City, Rutsiro, and Nyamasheke Districts. Regions like western Kamonyi, Gicumbi, and Bugesera will experience lighter winds, averaging 4 to 6 m/s.
Notably, while moderate winds can aid pollination and reduce heat stress, stronger gusts pose risks to infrastructure, especially in vulnerable rural areas.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, December 30, 2024, has drawn widespread attention.
In a statement released on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, KSA said preliminary assessments indicate that the object is a fragment of a space vehicle, specifically a metallic ring used as a separation mechanism for rockets.
The object, measuring approximately 2.5 meters in diameter, startled residents when it fell in the village, creating a loud thud upon impact. Panic quickly turned to curiosity as residents gathered to inspect the mysterious debris.
KSA explained that such objects are typically designed to burn up upon re-entering Earth’s atmosphere or land in uninhabited areas, such as oceans. However, in this rare case, the fragment reached the ground in a populated area, making it an isolated but significant incident.
KSA is now working within established international space law frameworks to investigate the matter and determine the exact origin of the object.
The agency expressed its gratitude to the residents of Mukuku Village for their swift action in reporting the incident and cooperating with authorities to ensure public safety.
KSA further assured the public that the fallen object poses no immediate threat to safety.
“Our experts will analyze the object, use existing frameworks to identify the owner, and keep the public informed of the next steps and outcomes,” the government agency stated.
The incident has reignited discussions about space debris and the need for stringent measures to manage objects re-entering Earth’s atmosphere. Space agencies worldwide are increasingly grappling with the challenge of ensuring that rocket components and satellites are disposed of responsibly.
Kiribati, an island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, was the first to celebrate, marking the start of January 1, 2025, earlier today. The country is located in the world’s earliest time zone, UTC+14.
As the first country to welcome 2025, Kiribati, also known as Christmas Island, was followed shortly after by New Zealand. Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower lit up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display, drawing thousands of spectators to ring in the New Year.
Australia followed suit, with Sydney’s world-famous fireworks over Sydney Harbour attracting large crowds despite some disruptions. The celebrations in both nations set the tone for the global festivities that would follow.
In Asia, Japan and South Korea soon joined the festivities. Japan welcomed the New Year with traditional ceremonies and cultural rituals, while South Korea, in observance of a national mourning period, kept the celebrations more subdued. Both nations celebrated in their unique ways, embracing the New Year in their respective time zones.
As the evening wore on, countries across Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, began their celebrations.
Meanwhile, nations in South Asia, like India and Sri Lanka, were preparing to usher in 2025. The global progression of New Year celebrations continued across the globe, as each time zone marked the arrival of the New Year in succession.
Rwanda will welcome the New Year 12 hours after Kiritimati Island in Kiribati due to the time difference.
The City of Kigali authorities have confirmed that the night sky in Kigali will be lit up with a spectacular fireworks display on Tuesday night. The fireworks show will conclude the countdown to the New Year at exactly midnight on January 1.
According to a public notice issued on December 30, celebrations will take place at Canal Olympia, Rebero, and Imbuga City Walk in the City Centre.
Fireworks will also be displayed at key locations, including the Kigali Convention Centre and Kigali Serena Hotel, offering a stunning visual experience for thousands of revellers.
The partnerships, spanning sectors such as agriculture, climate change, trade, technology, and education, have reinforced Rwanda’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and mutual growth.
While the year witnessed several agreements, this article highlights some of the most impactful ones, underscoring Rwanda’s role as a key player on the global stage.
The year began on a momentous note with the Kingdom of Jordan. On January 7, 2024, Rwanda and Jordan solidified their partnership across various sectors, including agriculture, trade, health, and medical science.
The ceremony, attended by President Paul Kagame and King Abdullah II Ibn Al-Hussein, marked a significant step toward deepening bilateral relations.
The agreements also included a pact to eliminate double taxation, a move aimed at enhancing trade and investment between the two nations.
This collaboration builds upon existing ties and promises to invigorate tourism and agricultural ventures, setting a strong tone for the year ahead.
Later that month, Rwanda turned its focus to global environmental stewardship. On January 21, a key agreement on climate change was signed with Denmark at the picturesque Nyandungu Eco Park.
Representing a shared commitment to environmental preservation, this partnership drew on Rwanda’s reputation as a leader in sustainability and Denmark’s expertise in eco-friendly innovation.
Together, the two nations pledged to address climate challenges, advancing Rwanda’s green agenda while strengthening Denmark’s environmental outreach.
In a show of enduring friendship, Rwanda and Belgium inked a bilateral cooperation agreement valued at approximately Rwf131 billion on January 30.
This agreement, covering 2024–2029, strategically channels resources into agriculture, urbanization, health, and public finance management.
As February unfolded, Rwanda joined hands with the European Union to promote sustainable mining practices. The partnership aims to improve mineral supply chains, enhance value addition, and combat illegal mineral trading.
With a focus on eco-friendly mining and technological innovation, this agreement represents a pivotal step toward advancing Rwanda’s mining sector while aligning with global sustainability goals.
The first quarter of the year also witnessed strengthened ties with China. On March 28, Musanze District in Rwanda’s Northern Province entered a Sister Cities Agreement with Jinhua, marking a historic first in Rwanda-China relations.
This partnership was complemented by a five-year educational exchange program between Jinhua Polytechnic and IPRC Musanze.
The initiative, which enables Rwandan students to study both at home and in China, reflects a decade-long relationship rooted in mutual capacity building and knowledge exchange.
The second quarter brought an ambitious collaboration with Mali. From May 25 to 27, the first Joint Permanent Commission meeting between the two countries culminated in 19 agreements across diverse sectors such as health, security, agriculture, and technology.
The accords, rooted in shared values of inclusive development, reflect a growing partnership that has steadily evolved since Mali established its embassy in Kigali in 2017.
June saw a renewed focus on innovation with the Kigali Innovation City project. Rwanda and Africa50 signed an agreement to accelerate the implementation of this transformative initiative, which aims to position Kigali as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurship.
With 61 hectares of land designated for development, this partnership seeks to attract global investors, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for innovation in Africa.
The momentum continued into August when Rwanda and Egypt signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on transport cooperation.
Held during a bilateral meeting between Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and Egyptian counterpart, Badr Abdelatty, this agreement laid the groundwork for enhanced infrastructure development and connectivity.
A key moment for Rwanda-Egypt relations came on August 12, 2024, when the two nations finalized a deal concerning the supply of medical equipment and devices for the Rwanda-Egypt Heart Centre.
Also known as the Magdi Yacoub Rwanda-Egypt Heart Care Centre, this facility, under construction in Masaka, Kicukiro District, will play a crucial role in the treatment of heart-related diseases.
The first phase of the facility is expected to become operational in early 2026, a landmark achievement that stems from a Memorandum of Understanding signed in November 2021.
This collaboration highlights the ongoing medical and technological exchange between Rwanda and Egypt and underscores Rwanda’s commitment to improving healthcare for its citizens.
In September, diplomatic relations took centre stage as Rwanda and The Bahamas signed an MoU for mutual visa requirements exemption.
Formalized on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, this agreement symbolized a significant step toward fostering ease of movement and stronger bilateral ties between the two nations.
Rwanda’s commitment to climate change mitigation was further solidified with Sweden in an MoU signed later that month.
Through a partnership aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, Rwanda and Sweden pledged to trade carbon credits and support each other’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
This initiative showcased Rwanda’s proactive stance on global climate issues while benefiting from Sweden’s expertise in sustainable energy solutions.
The final months of the year were marked by notable agreements with Nigeria, Russia, and Poland.
In early November, Rwanda’s Private Sector Federation and Nigeria’s Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an MoU to boost trade and investment.
The collaboration promises to streamline procedures, reduce trade barriers, and explore opportunities in sectors ranging from agriculture to creative industries.
Days later, an agreement with Russia removed visa requirements for diplomatic and service passport holders, reflecting long-standing ties in education, military training, and cultural exchange.
On November 13, Rwanda signed an Air Service Agreement with Poland, heralding the prospect of direct flights between the two countries.
Represented by Ambassador Prof. Anastase Shyaka and Poland’s Secretary of State Lasek Maciej, the deal promises to enhance economic and cultural exchanges, connecting Rwanda to Europe in unprecedented ways.
The agreements, building on those signed in previous years, highlight Rwanda’s strong commitment to driving national growth and strengthening its global partnerships.
In its latest directive, the Ministry of Economy declared that all national and foreign nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) employing women would face closure if they failed to comply with the ban.
The directive, shared on social media platform X, warned that noncompliance would lead to the cancellation of an NGO’s operating license. This follows a prior 2021 suspension of Afghan women’s employment in NGOs, citing non-adherence to the Taliban’s interpretation of Islamic dress codes.
The Taliban’s Ministry of Economy, responsible for supervising national and foreign organizations, reaffirmed its stance, stating that women’s work in institutions not under Taliban control must cease.
The ministry warned, “In case of lack of cooperation, all activities of that institution will be cancelled.”
Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban has implemented measures that significantly restrict women’s presence in public life. Girls and women have been barred from post-primary education, public parks, and most forms of employment. The UN has described these actions as “gender apartheid.”
The new restrictions extend beyond employment. Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhunzada recently issued a decree banning windows in residential buildings that overlook areas where women may sit or work.
The order applies to new and existing structures, requiring property owners to obscure such views using walls, fences, or screens.
A statement from government spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid justified the policy, claiming it would “remove harm” and prevent “obscene acts.”
Municipal authorities are tasked with ensuring compliance during construction and renovations.
The Taliban has also prohibited women from singing or reciting poetry in public, with some local broadcasters halting the airing of female voices.
Despite these measures, the Taliban claims to have issued thousands of work permits to women and denies obstructing humanitarian operations.
However, the United Nations has reported increasing restrictions on female aid workers, hindering critical relief efforts. The Taliban insists these actions are in line with Islamic law and necessary to maintain public safety and social norms.
The international community has condemned the Taliban’s policies, with many urging the group to reverse its decisions to allow Afghan women greater participation in society.
The year was marked by several high-profile initiatives, collaborations, and projects aimed at tackling climate challenges and advancing the nation’s goals of reducing emissions, conserving biodiversity, and fostering sustainable urban development.
From groundbreaking climate talks with Germany to cutting-edge waste management projects, Rwanda’s environmental journey in 2024 highlighted both local and global engagement.
This round-up brings together the key milestones, offering a comprehensive view of how the country continued its pursuit of a green, sustainable future.
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One of the most significant developments in Rwanda’s environmental sector in 2024 was the launch of the Kigali Climate Talks in May.
This quarterly series, a collaboration between Rwanda and Germany, was inaugurated by Rwanda’s then Minister of Environment, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, and German Ambassador Heike Uta Dettmann.
The talks aimed to foster dialogue on climate change, sustainability, and joint action.
The first session focused on Rwanda’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, with discussions centred on the financial, technical, and capacity-building reforms needed to achieve Rwanda’s climate goals.
Dr. Mujawamariya reaffirmed Rwanda’s strong commitment to global climate targets and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the private sector, youth, and international partners in realizing the nation’s vision of carbon neutrality by 2050.
The talks will continue to provide a platform for actionable solutions, deepening the Rwanda-Germany climate partnership.
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In June, Rwanda took another significant step towards environmental sustainability with the inauguration of its first municipal waste valorization facilities at the Nduba dumpsite.
This initiative, part of the ‘Waste to Resources Project,’ aims to revolutionize the country’s approach to waste management by transforming waste into valuable resources.
Funded by Luxembourg’s Ministry of Environment and the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), the project includes a waste sorting facility capable of processing 100 tons of waste daily, and a bio-waste treatment plant that turns organic waste into fertilizers.
Over the past few years, Rwanda has also implemented household waste sorting programs, awareness campaigns, and reverse vending machines in Kigali to promote recycling.
The waste valorization project not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 15,000 tons annually but also creates green jobs, advancing Rwanda’s vision of a zero-waste circular economy by 2035.
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In September, Rwanda strengthened its international climate partnerships by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sweden.
This agreement focused on implementing Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which allows countries to collaborate on carbon markets and trade carbon credits to achieve more significant emissions reductions.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and the Swedish Energy Agency will work together on capacity building, technical analysis, and the development of work plans to advance both countries’ climate goals.
The collaboration is a testament to Rwanda’s growing role in global climate leadership and Sweden’s commitment to supporting emission reduction efforts in Africa.
Environment Minister Dr. Valentine Uwamariya emphasized that the partnership would help Rwanda meet its NDCs while fostering sustainable development.
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Rwanda’s urban sustainability efforts received a boost in October with the announcement of a $28 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF).
The grant will support the Green City Kigali project, which aims to transform Kigali into a model of sustainable urbanization with climate-resilient infrastructure.
As Kigali grows rapidly, nearly 77% of its population lives in informal settlements vulnerable to climate risks such as flooding and landslides.
The Green City initiative seeks to upgrade these settlements, incorporating sustainable solutions to improve climate resilience.
Over the next five years, the project will position Kigali as a regional leader in climate-conscious urban planning, reducing emissions and improving living conditions for residents.
Rwanda unveils AI-powered ‘interspecies money’ for gorilla conservation
In November, Rwanda launched an innovative conservation initiative, “Interspecies Money,” aimed at supporting gorilla conservation in Volcanoes National Park.
This AI-powered platform allows tourists to make real-time, symbolic contributions to conservation efforts through digital wallets.
The funds directly support vital activities such as hiring park rangers and protecting gorilla habitats.
The platform also provides income-generating opportunities for local communities, such as wildlife photography and conservation reporting.
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Rwanda’s push for clean mobility took a significant step forward in November with the announcement of a plan to phase out petrol-powered motorcycles in Kigali by January 2025.
The policy requires all new entrants into the motorcycle taxi business to use electric motorcycles, while existing petrol-powered bikes can continue operating for the time being.
This transition is part of Rwanda’s broader environmental strategy, aimed at reducing air pollution and improving air quality in urban areas.
The country is already investing in the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as battery swapping stations.
The move reflects Rwanda’s commitment to sustainable transport solutions, and it is expected to reduce carbon emissions while improving air quality in Kigali.
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Rwanda continued to play a leadership role in global environmental advocacy in November 2024, when it called for a legally binding treaty to address plastic pollution at the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5).
As Co-Chair of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Rwanda urged nations to adopt a treaty that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastic pollution and promotes sustainable alternatives.
The country also advocated for a Multilateral Fund to help developing nations meet the treaty’s obligations, highlighting the disproportionate impact of plastic pollution on vulnerable communities.
Rwanda’s call for a global treaty reflects its long-standing commitment to reducing plastic waste and protecting the environment.
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At the 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) held in November, Rwanda joined global leaders in calling for urgent action to combat climate change.
Minister Uwamariya stressed the severe impacts of climate change on Rwanda’s economy, noting that the country is already experiencing extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.
Rwanda’s commitment to reducing emissions by 38% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 was reaffirmed, and the country called for a more equitable climate finance framework to support developing nations.
Rwanda also urged high-emitting countries to accelerate emissions reductions and strengthen efforts to build a low-carbon future for all.
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In late November, Claver Ntoyinkima, a Senior Ranger Guide at Nyungwe National Park, was awarded the prestigious Tusk Wildlife Ranger Award for his outstanding contributions to primate and bird conservation in Rwanda.
Ntoyinkima’s dedication to protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity has earned him international recognition.
His work includes anti-poaching patrols, primate habituation, and guiding scientific research, as well as founding conservation clubs for local youth.
His award was presented by Prince William at the 2024 Tusk Conservation Awards in London, where he was celebrated for his tireless commitment to wildlife and community conservation.
The United States was among the nations that voted to reduce the UN peacekeeping force in Rwanda during the genocide, significantly hampering the peacekeepers’ ability to effectively intervene and protect civilians.
The Genocide against the Tutsi began in April 1994, 13 years and two months after Jimmy Carter—who passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024—had left office as President of the United States.
Despite the international community’s inaction during those dark days, Carter demonstrated through his organization, the Carter Center, that there was still a role to play in preventing similar atrocities.
Carter was among the influential Americans who led efforts to engage leaders from the Great Lakes region to address the plight of Rwandan refugees who fled during the genocide, as well as génocidaires operating near Rwanda’s borders and launching sporadic attacks.
In an article titled “Hope is Not Lost” published on the Carter Center’s website on September 19, 1995, Carter emphasized that, after abandoning the Tutsi, the international community needed to prioritize Rwanda’s challenges as much as those in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
He wrote that the world looked the other way the previous year when Rwandans died in the worst case of genocide since World War II.
Carter further stated that another 100,000 people had been killed in Burundi the year before.
“Instead of increasing its efforts to resolve this crisis, the international peace-keeping force is being withdrawn,” he noted.
“Two million exiles, mostly Hutus, now live in crowded camps in Zaire and Tanzania. They are restive and afraid—and a few are armed and aggressive. Militant Hutu refugees conduct night raids into Rwanda and return to their camps in Zaire before daybreak.”
Post-genocide security concerns in Rwanda, as well as ongoing violence in Burundi, prompted Carter to hold talks with leaders from the countries and mediators to seek solutions.
On October 8, 2024, Vince Farley, Carter’s Africa advisor, recounted Carter’s diplomatic efforts in the Great Lakes region. In November 1995, Carter visited Goma, a city hosting many Rwandan refugees.
Farley explained that the purpose of Carter’s visit was to meet with representatives of Rwandan refugees, including those based in the city and others from Europe.
During a meeting in a refugee camp, Carter addressed the Rwandans, explaining the Carter Center’s role in resolving conflicts in the Great Lakes region and recounting his visit to Rwanda, where he toured genocide memorial sites.
Farley recalled that, after outlining these efforts, Carter turned to the refugees and stated that some individuals in the room were architects of the Genocide against the Tutsi, warning them that justice would catch up with them.
Carter said to the génocidaires: “I know many of the leaders of this genocide are in this room, and I want to assure you that you will be brought to justice.”
His words, though seemingly delayed, eventually came to fruition as many génocidaires were apprehended through the efforts of international bodies, including Interpol, and brought to justice. However, more than 1,000 génocidaires remain in hiding worldwide to this day.
The 39th President of the United States, who served from 1977 to 1981, passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100.
Carter, born in 1924, had a diverse career as a naval officer, farmer, and governor of Georgia before serving as president from 1977 to 1981.
While the exact cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed, it is understood that his passing was due to natural causes associated with his advanced age and ongoing health issues.
He had in February 2023 opted to receive hospice care at his home following a series of health challenges, including a 2015 diagnosis of melanoma that had metastasized to his brain and liver.
Images and videos shared by the local media show protesters, mainly in Nairobi and Mombasa counties, holding placards demanding the government to “Stop Injustice” and “End the Abductions.”
A group of protesters stage peaceful demos at Aga Khan Walk, Nairobi, demanding release of those abducted pic.twitter.com/jb5zU9DFgG
The protests are being led by human rights organizations, lobby groups, youth, and survivors of abductions that occurred in June during the height of youth-led demonstrations. The earlier protests forced President William Ruto to shelve plans to introduce additional taxes through the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
In a communiqué released on Sunday, the organizers announced that nationwide demonstrations would be held in all 47 counties to condemn what they described as enforced disappearances.
The protesters argue that the demonstrations aim to pressure the government to release those believed to have been abducted, end arbitrary arrests, and address the demands voiced by Generation Z during the June protests.
At least five abductions have been reported in December alone, targeting critics of President Ruto’s administration. Among those missing are individuals who shared AI-generated images of Ruto in a casket—images that some deemed offensive.
One of the abductees is the popular cartoonist Kibet Bull, whose real name is Gideon Kibet. His satirical images of the president went viral. Kibet disappeared on Christmas Eve after meeting opposition senator Okiya Omtatah.
Kibet’s younger brother, Ronny Kiplangat, who has also been missing for several days, is believed by their family to have been used as bait by security forces to lure Kibet.
Besides sharing silhouette images of the Head of State, those abducted have been vocal on social media, accusing the government of corruption, failing to address unemployment, and not fulfilling its promises to revitalize the economy.
The police have denied any involvement in the incidents, stating that none of the missing persons are in their custody.
However, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was impeached in October for allegedly sabotaging President Ruto’s administration, claims the government is behind the abductions.
Speaking to the press in Nairobi on Friday, Gachagua alleged that the abductions are being conducted by a secret unit operating outside the authority of the Inspector General of Police.
“There’s a building in Nairobi, on the 21st floor in the city centre, where the unit operates from, led by a certain Mr. Abel. Abel is a cousin to a very senior official in this government,” Gachagua disclosed.
He threatened to reveal more details about the secret unit if the abducted individuals are not released.
Later that day, President Ruto, accompanied by opposition leader Raila Odinga—whose allies have joined Ruto’s Cabinet in a broad-based government formed after the Gen-Z protests—promised to address the issue of abductions.
Odinga condemned the state-linked abductions of government critics, stating that Kenya cannot become a “gangster state.”
Recognized as Kenya’s second liberation hero, Odinga was a victim of the oppressive regime of the late President Daniel Arap Moi during the fight for multiparty democracy in the 1990s. He warned that allowing such practices to persist could return the country to the dark days of the “Nyayo Torture Chambers.”
President Ruto acknowledged the public’s concerns but urged the youth to exercise discipline.
“We will stop the abductions so Kenyan youth can live in peace, but they must be disciplined and polite so that we can build Kenya together,” Ruto said during an event at a stadium in Homa Bay in western Kenya.
The legislation, set to take effect on January 19, would either force TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell the platform to an American company or result in a nationwide ban.
Trump’s appeal, filed just weeks before his inauguration, aims to buy time for a “political resolution” to the issue once he takes office.
TikTok’s troubles began when U.S. lawmakers accused ByteDance of posing a national security risk due to alleged ties with the Chinese government—claims the company has consistently denied.
Earlier this year, Congress passed a bill requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok, and President Biden signed it into law. Despite ByteDance’s legal challenges, no buyers have emerged, leaving the app’s future in limbo.
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear arguments on January 10 about whether the law infringes upon First Amendment rights. However, Trump’s legal team has requested a stay on the January 19 deadline, arguing that the incoming administration should have the opportunity to address the matter diplomatically.
Trump’s latest stance represents a stark departure from his 2020 efforts to ban TikTok over similar security concerns. His recent shift appears tied to his burgeoning presence on the platform during his presidential campaign, which he credits for his strong support among younger voters.
“I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok because I won youth by 34 points,” Trump remarked during a recent press conference, highlighting the app’s impact on his outreach efforts.
In a court filing, Trump’s lawyer, D. John Sauer, stated that the president-elect “takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute” but seeks a delay to “pursue a political resolution” to the complex tensions between free speech and national security.
Trump has also expressed confidence in his ability to broker a deal that would preserve TikTok’s operations in the U.S. without compromising security concerns.
The case has drawn sharp divides. Free speech advocates argue that banning TikTok would set a dangerous precedent akin to authoritarian censorship.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department and a coalition of 22 state attorneys general, led by Montana’s Austin Knudsen, contend that TikTok’s Chinese ownership poses an ongoing threat to American national security.
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, met with Trump twice in recent weeks, reportedly discussing potential paths forward. While TikTok has long maintained that its U.S. operations are independent—with data stored on Oracle servers and content moderation handled domestically—the allegations have persisted.
The Supreme Court’s upcoming decision could mark a pivotal moment for TikTok and its 170 million American users. If the court declines to delay the deadline and no deal is reached, the app faces an imminent ban just a day before Trump’s inauguration.
Trump’s legal team argues that extending the timeline would allow for a diplomatic solution that avoids litigation.
“The incoming administration has the mandate, expertise, and political will to address this matter in a way that safeguards national security while preserving free expression,” Sauer’s filing stated.
