Kenya witnessed dramatic scenes on Monday as nationwide protests erupted over the recent surge in abductions and enforced disappearances.
Human rights organizations, lobby groups, youth activists, and survivors of this year’s abductions joined hands in the demonstrations, which were staged in all 47 counties.
In Nairobi’s Central Business District, protesters gathered along Aga Khan Walk to voice their outrage, chanting anti-abduction slogans and demanding the unconditional release of abducted individuals.
Among those present was Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, a prominent figure in the protests, who defiantly carried the Kenyan Constitution booklet and locked arms with demonstrators to resist police efforts to disperse them.
Dramatic Standoff with Police
The protests turned chaotic around 1 p.m. when anti-riot police fired tear gas canisters into the crowd, forcing journalists and demonstrators to scramble for safety.
Despite the crackdown, the protesters regrouped and continued their march.
At one point, Omtatah and a group of demonstrators clung to a heavy-duty metal chain, attempting to block police officers from making arrests.
The standoff ended with Omtatah and several other protesters being arrested and taken to Central Police Station for processing.
Videos shared on social media showed mounted police patrolling the streets as tension escalated.
Rising Concern Over Abductions
The protests were fueled by mounting public outrage over the abduction of at least six individuals between December 17 and 25, 2024.
Among the missing are Gideon Kibet, Ronny Kiplagat, Steve Kavingo Mbisi, Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, and Kelvin Muthoni.
This is part of a broader trend that has seen over 10 abductions reported in December alone and more than 80 cases throughout the year.
Protesters called on the government to release those believed to have been abducted, end arbitrary arrests, and address demands made by youth-led groups like Generation Z earlier in June.
DPP Orders Investigation
In response to the growing crisis, Director of Public Prosecutions Mulele Ingonga has ordered an investigation into the abductions and directed the police to report on their findings by January 1, 2025.
“I am concerned with reports of abductions and forced disappearances in the country, hence the need for a probe,” Ingonga stated.
Despite arrests and police crackdowns, protesters remain resolute, arguing that their demonstrations are necessary to pressure authorities to take action.
