Gideon Kibet, popularly known as Kibet Bull, has spoken out following his release after an alleged two-week-long abduction.
The cartoonist, known for his satirical artwork critiquing President William Ruto’s administration, assured the public that he is safe and unharmed.
Speaking to the media on Monday night, Kibet recounted being abandoned in Luanda, Vihiga County, during the early hours of the morning.
“I was dropped at a place I did not know initially. After walking around, I realized I was in Luanda. I waited until morning before starting my journey home,” he shared.
Luanda is approximately 300 kilometers from Nakuru, where Kibet resides. He confirmed he was physically unharmed but exhausted from the ordeal.
“I have no injuries on my body, except for exhaustion,” he said. However, he refrained from sharing details of the alleged abduction, saying, “For now, I cannot speak much about the abduction. I just want to be with my family.”
Despite his reluctance to discuss specifics, Kibet emphasized the gravity of his experience.
“Abduction is real; I can confirm that,” he stated, urging the government to uphold freedom of speech and address grievances lawfully.
“I am urging the government to respect freedom of speech and take people to court if necessary,” he added.
Updates on His Brother
Kibet also disclosed that his brother, Ronny Kiplagat, who was reportedly abducted on December 21, 2024, is safe and currently staying with friends in Nairobi.
“Ronny is safe in Nairobi with friends,” Kibet confirmed.
Kiplagat was allegedly taken after attending a church service at the Kikuyu Seventh-Day Adventist Church, where he serves as a youth leader. Four days later, on Christmas Day, Kibet was reportedly abducted after visiting the office of Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah in Nairobi.
Online Presence and Future Plans
Kibet, who uses the alias “Yoko” on X (formerly Twitter), has gained prominence for his critical illustrations targeting government policies. Following his release, he posted a tweet but noted that he plans to limit his online activities.
Before his abduction, Kibet was preparing to join a group of young people traveling to Israel for further studies on December 27, 2024. He now says he will decide within a week whether to proceed with the program.
