Former National Youth Leader David Maina Echoes U.S. Embassy Call for Justice and Accountability in Kenya
Maina described the Embassy’s call for accountability and unity as “a gift to our broken hearts,” particularly for families mourning abducted loved ones.
Former National Youth Leader David Maina has echoed sentiments expressed by the U.S. Embassy to Kenya in its recent statement, calling for an end to rampant abductions and lawlessness in the country. While ushering in the New Year, Maina delivered a powerful message of hope, gratitude, and a call for action to address insecurity in Kenya.
“I would like to wish all Kenyans a happy New Year and encourage them to remain hopeful because I have no doubt that, through the grace of God, we will experience a better Kenya this year,” Maina said.
He commended the U.S. Embassy for being the first international entity to stand with Kenyans in condemning the surge of abductions.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the American Embassy for its unwavering support. Their condemnation of these heinous abductions is a beacon of hope for a country grappling with fear and insecurity,” he stated. “The sixty-year partnership between Kenya and the United States has brought security to East Africa, but now insecurity has taken root here at home. Kenyans can no longer enjoy their freedom of speech due to the deep fear caused by these lawless acts.”
Maina also highlighted the Embassy’s recognition of the value of freedom and accountability, quoting Acting U.S. Ambassador to Kenya, Marc Dillard, who emphasized democracy and human rights in the Embassy’s December, 2024, statement:
“We are deeply concerned by reports of violence, including shootings and abductions of protestors, journalists, and others. Constructive engagement of citizens and civil society, aided by a free and independent media, is a pillar of democracy. These are values we share with Kenya and which we must all protect.”
Maina described the Embassy’s call for accountability and unity as “a gift to our broken hearts,” particularly for families mourning abducted loved ones.
“The voice of the American Embassy is comforting as we witness parents in courtrooms and public spaces weeping and pleading for the return of their children. We demand an end to these abductions, the safe return of our loved ones, and respect for the rule of law,” he said.
In its statement, the U.S. Embassy also urged Kenyan authorities to uphold the rights of citizens to demonstrate peacefully and called for all actors, including police and protesters, to repudiate violence.
“The Embassy urges police to exercise restraint and protect the rights of people to demonstrate peacefully. All actors – police and protesters alike – should repudiate violence and be held accountable for wrongdoing,” the statement read.
Maina joined the Embassy in urging the Kenyan government to prioritize national unity, reconciliation, and steps toward accountability, including addressing corruption. He encouraged leaders to use this pivotal moment to demonstrate shared democratic values.
“As we welcome 2025, I call on all Kenyans to reflect on these values. We must hold our leaders accountable, demand justice, and work together to build a peaceful, secure, and prosperous nation,” Maina concluded.
He wished Kenyans “abundant blessings, peace, and unity from the Almighty God” for the New Year, reiterating his hope for a brighter future for the nation.
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