Kenyan human rights defender and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah was among those arrested during the #EndAbductionsKE protests at Aga Khan Walk in Nairobi’s Central Business District. The demonstration, which attracted various activists and concerned citizens, aimed to draw attention to the rising cases of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial actions in Kenya.
The protests began peacefully, with demonstrators chanting slogans and carrying placards condemning forced disappearances. However, the situation escalated when police arrived at the scene, ordering the group to disperse. Despite repeated warnings, the protesters stood their ground, insisting on their right to assemble and speak out against the injustices. The standoff culminated in the arrest of Senator Omtatah and several others.
Witnesses reported that Omtatah remained defiant as police bundled him into a vehicle. His determination to address human rights violations has long made him a notable figure in Kenya’s political and legal spheres. The senator has consistently been at the forefront of challenging oppressive policies, earning respect as a voice for the marginalized.
The #EndAbductionsKE movement has been gaining traction in recent months as more Kenyans express frustration over what they perceive as the state’s failure to address the growing number of disappearances. Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for accountability, urging authorities to investigate these cases thoroughly and bring perpetrators to justice.
Following the arrests, social media platforms buzzed with reactions from Kenyans expressing solidarity with the protesters. Many viewed the police response as an attempt to silence legitimate concerns. Civil society groups have since condemned the arrests, reiterating their commitment to seek justice for the victims of abductions.
By Creatorhub