In a public statement issued on June 26, 2026, Mutua stated that the government has not facilitated the deployment of any Kenyan citizens into the conflict zone and rejected claims connecting his office to human trafficking or military recruitment operations.
His response comes amid growing scrutiny following reports and allegations from victims’ families, activists, and intelligence sources regarding the movement of Kenyan youth to Russia.
According to the allegations, hundreds of young Kenyans reportedly traveled under what was presented as an overseas employment program offering civilian job opportunities in Russia. However, some reports claim that upon arrival, individuals were allegedly pressured or forced into signing military contracts and later deployed to frontline operations in Ukraine with limited preparation.
Reports cited by critics claim that at least 291 Kenyans may have been affected through irregular recruitment channels, including cases of deaths and missing persons. Separate intelligence-based reporting has suggested that the actual number could be significantly higher, although such figures remain publicly contested.
Additional investigative reports published in June 2026 also alleged possible links between officials and the recruitment pipeline, claims that have generated public debate and calls for further investigation.
In his defense, Mutua maintained that the government’s labour migration programs remain lawful and focused on employment creation. He stated that Kenyans who traveled to Russia through official channels were received by Kenya’s Ambassador to Russia, Peter Mathuki, and continue to remain in contact while working in legitimate civilian jobs.