Muturi demands immediate return of Kenyans deployed to Russia–Ukraine war

Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi has intensified pressure on the government over reports that Kenyan youth were recruited and deployed to the Russia–Ukraine conflict zone, demanding their immediate return and full accountability from responsible ministries.

Muturi said the government’s response so far — indicating it was “looking into the matter” — was insufficient and failed to address the urgency of the situation.

“Public relations responses are not enough. Kenyans need action. They need leadership. They need their children brought home,” Muturi said.

Last week, Muturi raised alarm over what he described as credible reports that young Kenyans had been recruited into the foreign conflict.

He referenced Kenya’s obligations under international law, including United Nations Security Council Resolution 2331 (2016), which addresses trafficking and exploitation in situations of armed conflict.

The opposition leader said investigations could proceed, but insisted that the government’s immediate responsibility was to secure the safe return of those believed to be alive and repatriate the bodies of any who may have died.

“The first responsibility of the State is clear: secure the safe return of those who are alive and ensure that those who have tragically lost their lives are brought home with dignity and honour,” he said.

Muturi termed the alleged recruitment a grave failure of duty if it occurred under the watch of the current administration. He called on the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Labour to provide clear answers on who authorized or permitted the recruitment, how many Kenyans are currently in the conflict zone, and what concrete steps are being taken to secure their return.

He further demanded that those found culpable — whether private individuals or public officials — face legal consequences once the affected Kenyans are accounted for.

“Accountability must not be cosmetic. It must be real, visible, and uncompromising,” Muturi said.

He added that Kenya deserves a responsible government that protects its youth before tragedy strikes, not after public pressure mounts.

Muturi concluded by expressing solidarity with the affected families and reiterating calls for urgency, transparency, and tangible results from the government.

Security agencies have revealed that more than 1,000 Kenyans had been recruited to join the war. There are efforts to bring back those so far found. More than 40 are in hospitals in Russia after being injured in the war.