Ugandan opposition leader and musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has expressed concern over the recent wave of abductions in Kenya.
His remarks follow the disappearance of several individuals, including Steve Mbisi, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, cartoonist Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull, and his brother Rony Kiplagat.
In a statement, Bobi Wine lamented Kenya’s decline from being a beacon of hope in East Africa to a country facing accusations of suppressing government critics.
“It is very sad to see how quickly Kenya is descending from being regarded as a beacon of hope for our troubled East African region to now being known for abductions of young citizens critical of the government,” he said.
Bobi Wine urged Kenyans to uphold the rule of law and resist repression, warning against the erosion of constitutional protections.
“I sympathise with you, Wandungu, the great people of Kenya. Like I warned you previously, you must resist,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of addressing repression early, stating, “To you, Kenyan friends, you must defend your Constitution before it is too weak to defend you. If you do not uproot repression when it is a seedling, it becomes much harder when it takes root, grows into a tree, and spreads its branches everywhere.”
The Kenyan government has come under fire following the abductions, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua alleging the involvement of a secret unit operating outside the control of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
Gachagua accused President William Ruto of enabling the unit, which he claims is responsible for the abductions of individuals critical of the government.
Ruto Promises Action
President Ruto, while addressing the issue, assured Kenyans that his government would bring the abductions to an end. He urged parents to guide and protect their children while promising government action to restore security.
“We all want to walk together. I want to urge all parents that our children are a blessing from God, and you should take care of them. As a government, we will do our part, and the issue of abductions will end so the youth can live in harmony and become people of integrity,” Ruto stated.
Rising Cases of Abductions
The recent abductions have caused public uproar, with cases including cartoonist Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull and his brother Rony Kiplagat drawing widespread attention. Inspector General Kanja has denied any involvement by the National Police Service, even as calls mount for transparency and accountability.
The growing concerns highlight the urgent need for action to address security challenges and protect the rights of all citizens.
