Extrajudicial Killings Documented During Counter‑Terror Operations (2015)

According to Human Rights Watch’s World Report 2016, Kenya’s security strategy — particularly in fighting al‑Shabaab — has come at a steep human rights cost. The report documents extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and arbitrary arrests by security forces, especially in Nairobi and in the northeastern counties of Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera. Human Rights Watch+2Human Rights Watch+2 HRW reports that at least 34 people disappeared under counterterrorism operations, with many detained by unmarked officers who never identified themselves. Human Rights Watch Bodies of 11 people have also reportedly been recovered, with little evidence of meaningful investigations. Human Rights Watch
The report raises serious concern over recent legislative reforms that broadened police powers, including controversial provisions for extended detention of terrorism suspects. Human Rights Watch It also criticises the government’s failure to hold accountable those responsible for grave abuses. Despite long-standing demands, there has been no significant progress on investigating state involvement in the 2007–2008 post-election violence, and key institutions remain under-resourced. Human Rights Watch
On civic space, HRW highlights growing pressure on civil society and the media. Prominent NGOs, like Haki Africa and MUHURI, were publicly accused of terrorist links, and their bank accounts were frozen. Human Rights Watch Journalists and human rights defenders also face threats under repressive laws, including provisions that curtail freedom of expression via vaguely worded misuse of gadgets charges. Human Rights Watch Meanwhile, refugees — notably Somali nationals — are under threat: Kenya has scaled down protections and made plans to repatriate people from Dadaab without guarantees of voluntary return. Human Rights Watch
LGBT rights are another flashpoint. Homosexuality remains criminalised, and HRW documents cases where same-sex couples were subjected to forced anal examinations — a degrading, invasive practice. Human Rights Watch In one case, two men arrested in Kwale County were held for such tests, raising serious questions about consent and basic dignity. Human Rights Watch+1
HRW’s conclusion is stark: Kenya’s counterterrorism approaches must be reformed, and the government urgently needs to investigate past abuses, ensure justice for victims, and firmly uphold civil liberties. Human Rights Watch