THREE Kenyan activists who were allegedly abducted in August following anti-government protests have been released, according to human rights groups. The activists, Bob Njagi, Aslam Longton, and Jamil Longton, were reportedly held captive for weeks before being freed in a remote area near Nairobi on Thursday.
Human rights organisations, including the Kenyan Human Rights Commission (KHRC), confirmed the release of the men, expressing relief but also concern over the conditions of their detention. Cornelius Oduor of KHRC said, ‘Our partners have confirmed their release. The images clearly show that the men were in distress… It points to the fact that they have been in captivity.’
Abductions spark outrage
The activists’ abduction has caused widespread outrage across Kenya, triggering calls for accountability and investigations into alleged human rights abuses by the country’s security forces. The three men were reportedly taken by security personnel during a wave of protests that began in June, which saw citizens demonstrating against the government.
Over 60 people lost their lives during the protests, which led to the resignation of Kenya’s police chief. The activists’ case underscores the continuing challenges faced by civil society groups and human rights defenders in Kenya.
Pressure for action
Human rights organisations and activists have been vocal in condemning the government’s handling of the protests and the apparent targeting of those critical of the authorities. The release of Njagi and the Longton brothers has renewed attention on Kenya’s security forces, who have been accused of using excessive force and resorting to abductions to suppress dissent.
The Kenyan government is now under increasing pressure to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for the activists’ detention, with calls for stronger protections for civil society members and activists.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by human rights defenders in Kenya, where freedom of expression and the right to protest are being increasingly challenged.
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