Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has sharply criticised the government over reports that Kenyan youth have been recruited and sent to fight in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with several reportedly killed.
In a statement shared on X, Muturi expressed concern that young Kenyans, described as unemployed and vulnerable, are allegedly being deceived with promises of jobs abroad before ending up on the battlefield.
He said the situation had caused widespread pain as families struggle to confirm the fate of their loved ones.
“These are not trained soldiers. These are ordinary young Kenyans,” Muturi said, arguing that the deaths reflect a broader failure to protect citizens seeking opportunities outside the country.
Muturi accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of remaining silent despite the seriousness of the claims, saying the government had a constitutional obligation to safeguard Kenyan citizens both locally and abroad.
He questioned how recruitment syndicates could operate without decisive state intervention, warning against normalising what he termed the “export of Kenyan youth to their deaths.”
The former CS called on President William Ruto’s administration to urgently investigate alleged trafficking networks linked to the recruitment, and to engage diplomatically to secure the safety and possible return of Kenyans caught up in the conflict.
He also demanded accountability from agencies responsible for labour export and foreign employment.
His remarks come amid growing public concern following reports on social media and international platforms about Kenyan nationals fighting for Russia, with some confirmed dead and others unaccounted for.
The government has previously acknowledged isolated cases of Kenyans recruited into the conflict but has maintained that it does not officially sanction such involvement.
Muturi insisted that the matter required more than explanations, urging swift action to reassure families and prevent further losses.
He concluded by stating that Kenyan lives should not be treated as expendable, calling for leadership that prioritises citizen welfare.