Grace Njoki, a vocal activist and community leader, has come forward to narrate her harrowing ordeal following her controversial arrest earlier this week.
Speaking to the media after securing her release, Njoki detailed the distressing events that unfolded, claiming she was manhandled and shuttled between three undisclosed locations during her detainment.
Njoki, known for championing social justice and transparency, was apprehended on Tuesday afternoon in what appeared to be a targeted operation. Eyewitnesses reported that plainclothes officers accosted her outside a café in Nairobi’s central business district.
“I was not informed of the reason for my arrest,” Njoki stated during a press briefing. “I was shoved into a vehicle, blindfolded, and taken to three different locations over several hours. At one point, I feared for my life.”
According to Njoki, the ordeal began with aggressive handling by officers who refused to disclose their identities or the charges against her. “It was not just an arrest; it felt like an abduction. The way they treated me was inhumane,” she said.
Njoki’s legal team has condemned the incident, describing it as a blatant violation of her rights. “This was a coordinated attempt to intimidate and silence her,” said her lawyer, John Mburu. “We will pursue legal action against those involved in this unlawful detention.”
While the police have yet to issue an official statement, sources indicate Njoki’s arrest may be linked to her outspoken criticism of recent government policies. The activist has recently gained attention for organizing protests against rising costs of living and alleged corruption within key government departments.
Njoki’s arrest has sparked outrage among civil society groups and human rights organizations. Amnesty International Kenya has called for an immediate investigation, labeling the incident as a worrying sign of shrinking democratic space in the country.
“This is not just about Grace Njoki. It’s about the growing trend of silencing dissent through intimidation and unlawful detentions,” said Irungu Houghton, the Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya.
Njoki’s supporters have announced plans to hold a peaceful demonstration demanding accountability and respect for human rights. As her story continues to unfold, the spotlight remains on law enforcement agencies and their handling of activists in Kenya.
“This will not silence me,” Njoki vowed. “If anything, it has strengthened my resolve to fight for justice and the rights of ordinary Kenyans.”
By Kenyans