Kenyan activist Mwabili Mwagodi, known online as TL Elder, faces tough times this Christmas. Supporters rally donations to help him after a frightening abduction earlier this year. The incident happened in July 2025 while he worked in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Mwagodi gained notice during the 2024 Gen Z protests in Kenya. He led the Occupy Churches campaign. It pushed back against politicians giving large donations to churches. Many saw it as a way to buy influence. Young people wanted churches to stay out of politics.
On July 23, 2025, unknown men abducted him in Dar es Salaam. Reports say they held him for days. He faced torture and questions about his criticism of the government. They took his phones, laptop, passport, and work permit. Four days later, they dumped him in a bush near the Kenya-Tanzania border in Kwale County.
He made it to a police station in Diani. From there, he got medical help in Mombasa. Amnesty International called it cross-border repression. They pointed to a pattern in East Africa. Other activists faced similar treatment around that time.
Mwagodi tried to report the full story to police in Kenya. Some stations turned him away at first. He later gave statements, but he says his life still feels at risk. The experience left him traumatised. He lost his job in hospitality. He stayed off social media for months.
Now, around Christmas 2025, friends and fellow activists ask for help. People like Dr. Branice Munyasa share his M-Pesa number online. They want Kenyans to send money for basic needs. Posts show he struggles with daily life after the ordeal.
Many remember his role in pushing for change. During protests against the Finance Bill in 2024, he mobilised youth. He called out corruption and political ties to religious leaders. Supporters see him as brave for speaking up.
Not everyone agrees on the risks he took. Some say activism brings danger to the region. Governments deny involvement in abductions. But human rights groups keep raising concerns.
This Christmas, the appeals spread on social media in Kenya. People in Nairobi and Mombasa share the calls. They tag friends and add messages of support. Small amounts add up to help with rent, food, or recovery.
Mwagodi moved partly to Tanzania for work before the abduction. He had lived in Mombasa earlier. The job loss hit hard. No steady income makes holidays tougher.
Donations come from ordinary Kenyans. Some send what they can spare. Others share the posts to reach more people. It shows solidarity among those who followed the protests.
Activists say support matters now. It helps him rebuild. Mental health takes time after trauma. Physical effects linger too.
Christmas in Kenya often brings giving. Families share meals and gifts. This year, some direct that spirit to Mwagodi. Posts remind everyone of his contributions.
Critics question if more proof is needed for claims. But many focus on helping a fellow citizen in need.
The story ties back to bigger issues. Protests changed how people view power. Young Kenyans demand accountability. Cases like this keep those talks going.
For now, the donation drive continues quietly online. M-Pesa makes it easy to send help directly. Supporters hope it brings some relief this festive season.
