BONIFACE Mwangi, a prominent Kenyan activist known for his outspoken stance on police brutality and government accountability, was reportedly abducted from his home early Sunday morning. According to his wife, Njeri Mwangi, six unidentified individuals entered their home in Machakos around 7:15 a.m. local time (0415 GMT) and forcibly took Mwangi away without providing any reason.
Njeri recounted the ordeal to local media, saying, ‘They forcefully took my husband from the house. I have no idea who they are, why they’ve taken him, or where they’ve taken him.’ Mwangi’s abduction occurred just hours before he was due to lead a protest at the annual Standard Chartered Marathon in Nairobi, Kenya’s largest single-day athletic event. The activist had planned to encourage runners to wear anti-government symbols to highlight police brutality in Kenya.
Reported detention at Kamukunji police station
Kenya’s Nation newspaper later reported that Mwangi was allegedly taken to Kamukunji police station in Nairobi. However, there was no official confirmation from the police about his detention. The activist’s sudden disappearance comes amid a troubling trend in Kenya, where activists and protesters have reportedly been subjected to forced disappearances, often with police involvement suspected.
Rising concern over activist safety
Mwangi’s abduction underscores the mounting risks faced by activists in Kenya. In recent months, several individuals reported missing have been found dead, sparking fears of extrajudicial actions by security forces. Human rights groups have raised alarms over what they describe as an increasingly dangerous climate for those speaking out against the government and security agencies.
Mwangi, a well-known figure in Kenya’s civil society, has long been a vocal critic of police misconduct and state oppression. His advocacy for justice and accountability has made him a central figure in the fight against corruption and brutality within Kenya’s security forces. As his family and supporters await answers, Mwangi’s case has intensified scrutiny of Kenya’s treatment of activists and the concerning rise of forced disappearances.
With growing calls for accountability, Mwangi’s abduction has become the latest incident highlighting the urgent need for reform and protection of civil rights in Kenya.
