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In recent weeks, Kenya has been gripped by a chilling wave of abductions targeting social media influencers and content creators known for their criticism of the government.
These alarming incidents have raised serious concerns about the state of freedom of expression in the country, with human rights groups, opposition leaders, and families of the victims calling for urgent action.
The most recent cases include the disappearance of Gideon Kibet, a popular cartoonist also known as 'Kibet Bull', and his brother Rony Kiplangat.
Kibet is widely recognised for his satirical illustrations that often take aim at President William Ruto and government officials. His family reported that both brothers disappeared under mysterious circumstances earlier this week
His disappearance, alongside that of other young influencers such as Peter Muteti, Benard Kavuli and Billy Wanyiri, has sparked nationwide outrage and growing fears about the safety of those using their platforms to speak out against the administration.
22-year-old social media influencer Muteti was allegedly abducted in Uthiru, Nairobi, after posting a controversial image of President Ruto on his X account. Witnesses recounted that four armed men forced Muteti into a vehicle, after which he became unreachable.
READ: Activist Bob Njagi's account of torture during 32-day abduction
In Embu, 24-year-old student and content creator Billy Wanyiri, known for his online critiques, was reportedly abducted outside a barbershop by individuals believed to be security agents. His family has appealed to President Ruto for assistance in locating their son.
IPOA deploys rapid response teams after abductions in several counties
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched investigations, while opposition leaders and rights groups have condemned the abductions as a blatant violation of constitutional freedoms.
IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack expressed concern over the trend and confirmed that Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to gather evidence and determine the circumstances surrounding these incidents.
Issack emphasised that if police involvement is confirmed, appropriate actions, including prosecution or disciplinary measures, will be recommended.
As the public grapples with the implications of these abductions, pressure mounts on the government to locate the missing individuals and restore confidence in the country’s democratic principles.
READ: 11 foreign nationals who faced abduction, deportation, or tragic deaths in Kenya
Raila's take on cases of abduction
These incidents have sparked widespread condemnation from various quarters. Opposition leader Raila Odinga has denounced the abductions, describing them as "primitive and unacceptable," and has called on the government to cease such actions immediately.
This is punitive and it's something that is very strange. We cannot live in a country where people disappear for no other reason and are kept incommunicado for a long time. The government must take this thing seriously and it must come to an end. We want a safe and secure country
The Police Reforms Working Group Kenya (PRWG-K) has also condemned the abductions, urging the government to uphold constitutional rights and ensure the safety and security of all citizens. They highlighted that such actions, if state-sanctioned, constitute grave human rights violations.
These abductions have raised serious concerns about freedom of expression and the safety of individuals who criticize the government in Kenya.
Human rights organisations and the public are calling for swift action to locate the missing individuals and hold those responsible accountable. The situation remains tense as families and supporters await updates on the whereabouts and safety of the abducted influencers.
This content was generated by an AI model and verified by the author.