KENYA: Protests Erupts In Kenya Over Alleged Abductions Of Activists

      By Lisbeth Micheni, Kenya 

Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Nairobi, Kenya on Monday, demanding an end to alleged abductions of government critics and activists.

The demonstrations, which began peacefully, quickly turned chaotic as police fired tear gas and used water cannons to disperse the crowds.

The protests were sparked by reports of recent disappearances of individuals outspoken against government policies.

Human rights organisations claim that several activists and opposition supporters have been abducted under mysterious circumstances, raising fears of a crackdown on dissent.

Among those arrested during the protests was Senator Okiya Omtatah, a prominent human rights advocate.

Witnesses reported that Omtatah was detained while addressing protesters outside the parliament buildings, urging the government to release missing persons and end the intimidation of critics.

“We are here to defend our constitutional rights and speak out against the culture of fear that is being imposed on us,” Omtatah said shortly before his arrest.

Protesters carried banners reading: “Stop Abductions” and “Justice for the Missing,” while chanting slogans condemning the government’s alleged involvement in the disappearances.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has already petitioned the High Court, which ordered police to release six individuals allegedly abducted, while summoning the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to explain the disappearances.

In response, the police have denied any involvement, labeling the claims as “politically motivated.”

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki urged calm, assuring the public that investigations into the allegations were underway.

Amnesty International Kenya and other rights groups condemned the police response to the protests, calling it excessive and a violation of the right to peaceful assembly.

“The government must respect freedom of expression and protect citizens from enforced disappearances,” said Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya.

As tensions remain high, protesters have vowed to continue demonstrations until their demands for justice and accountability are met.

More rallies are expected in the coming days as pressure mounts on authorities to address the growing crisis.