A disturbing trend of abductions and torture targeting Kenyan politicians and activists has emerged, raising serious concerns about human rights violations and the suppression of dissent in the country.
According to The Guardian, reports indicate that over 80 individuals have been abducted since June 2024, many of whom are young activists and government critics.
One notable recent case involves Boniface Mwangi, a prominent Kenyan activist, who was arrested in Tanzania while attempting to attend the treason trial of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
Mwangi alleges that he was subjected to severe torture by Tanzanian security agents before being released and returned to Kenya for medical treatment.
In Kenya, the situation is equally alarming. During protests against the controversial Finance Bill in June 2024, numerous activists were abducted by individuals believed to be linked to security services.
These abductions often involved plainclothes officers using unmarked vehicles, with victims being held in undisclosed locations and subjected to physical and psychological abuse.
The Kenyan government denied involvement in those abductions, suggesting that some individuals had staged their kidnappings. However, human rights organizations and victims dispute these claims, pointing to a pattern of state-sponsored repression aimed at silencing dissent.
The international community has expressed concern over these developments. The United States government, for instance, has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the allegations of torture and abduction involving activists like Boniface Mwangi.
Also read: Juja MP George Koimburi Found After Alleged Kidnapping in Kiambu
Kenyan and Tanzanian Activists’ Torture in Tanzania Sparks East African Diplomatic Tensions
Juja MP George Koimburi Abducted and Tortured
On Sunday, May 25, 2025, Juja Member of Parliament George Koimburi was reportedly abducted by unknown individuals outside a church in Mugutha, Kiambu County. His wife, Ann Koimburi, sustained injuries during the incident.
The following day, Koimburi was found unconscious in a coffee plantation in the Kibichoi area, Githunguri Constituency. According to his family, he appeared brutally tortured and was rushed to Karen Hospital for treatment.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed that Koimburi was tortured by professionals and injected with a chemical that affected his vocal cords, rendering him unable to speak.
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya’s Harrowing Ordeal
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya reported a harrowing experience on Friday, May 16, 2025. He claimed that armed men posing as Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers intercepted his convoy, disarmed his security detail, and shot at his vehicle. Salasya managed to escape into nearby bushes but was later captured and taken to an unknown location.
He alleged that the assailants issued a chilling warning, the details of which he withheld for security reasons.
Governor George Natembeya Condemns Political Violence
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has been vocal in condemning the recent spate of abductions and political violence. He emphasized the need for adherence to the rule of law and the protection of democratic freedoms.
Natembeya’s stance has drawn criticism from some quarters, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to upholding human rights.
Analysis: A Disturbing Pattern of Political Repression
The recent incidents involving Koimburi, Salasya, and others point to an alarming pattern of political repression in Kenya. The use of abductions and torture against politicians and activists suggests a concerted effort to silence dissent and intimidate opposition voices.
These actions undermine the democratic principles enshrined in the Kenyan Constitution and erode public trust in state institutions.
Human rights organizations have raised alarms over these developments, calling for independent investigations and accountability for those responsible. The international community has also expressed concern, urging the Kenyan government to uphold human rights and protect its citizens from such abuses.
As Kenya prepares for upcoming elections, the increasing incidents of abductions and torture accentuate the need for greater accountability and respect for human rights. Civil society organizations continue to advocate for the protection of activists and the upholding of democratic principles in the face of growing repression.
