In response to the kidnapping of activist Boniface Mwangi, which occurred early on Sunday morning, a number of Kenyans have gone to social media in order to call for his return.
Njeri Mwangi, his wife, has acknowledged that the event took place.
Njeri said that several unknown individuals took up the outspoken activist at about 7:15 in the morning on Sunday.
“At around 7:15 this morning, six individuals, unaware of the situation, went to Courage Base and forcibly removed my husband from the home.”
“I have no clue who they are, why they have abducted him, or where they have taken him,” she posted on X.
Kenyans were outraged by the announcement, blaming the government and expressing their disapproval of the increasing number of kidnapping incidents.
The former president of the Law Society of Kenya, Eric Theuri, made a statement that seemed to be a reference to the kidnapping of Mwangi.
He condemned the use of police force to engender fear and to deprive residents of their freedom to express their opinions.
He asserted that the ongoing kidnapping episodes would spark public outrage, ultimately leading to anarchy.
The use of police to silence viewpoints and kidnappings will only escalate the level of revolt. There will inevitably come a day when fear will no longer exist,” he said.
“A revolution is about to take place. The use of practices that violate the law and the Constitution can only lead to chaos. If we want to protect the nation, we need to put a halt to this potentially harmful tendency.”
In addition, CNN journalist Larry Madowo shared his thoughts on the subject, asserting that despite the government’s denials, kidnapping episodes continue to impact renowned opponents and activists.
Under the hashtag #FreeBonifaceMwangi, many Kenyans have voiced their opposition to the kidnapping while simultaneously campaigning for his release.
Unidentified individuals have taken a Kenyan activist hostage. Larry Madowo tweeted using the hashtag #FreeBonifaceMwangi.
In addition, investigative journalist John Alla Namu voiced his opposition to the kidnapping by tweeting, “This has to stop. #BonifaceMwangi must be free.”
Moreover, non-governmental groups voiced their disapproval of the kidnapping.
Despite their condemnation of the kidnapping, the Social Justice Centres Working Group made the following statement:
“The kidnapping of Boniface Mwangi by state agents is something that we categorically condemn. Mwangi, a steadfast advocate for human rights, was due to participate in today’s Standard Chat Marathon.
“This incarceration without legal justification demonstrates a troubling disrespect for the right to freedom of speech. Free Boniface Mwangi, please.”
For its part, the Defenders Coalition described the kidnapping as a serious violation of human rights and stated that it is unacceptable.
